What causes low blood pressure in middle-aged women, and what should be done about it?

Jun 04, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Low blood pressure in middle-aged women may be related to orthostatic hypotension, iron deficiency anemia, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, and other causes. Patients can manage the condition through dietary adjustments, oral medications, and similar approaches. If patients experience additional discomfort or symptoms, they should visit a hospital for further evaluation, identify the underlying cause, and receive targeted treatment under medical guidance.

Low blood pressure in middle-aged women may be related to orthostatic hypotension, iron deficiency anemia, coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, and other causes. Patients can receive treatment through dietary adjustments, oral medications, and other methods. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Orthostatic Hypotension

Some patients may experience dizziness, vertigo, or fainting when standing up or sitting from a lying position. This may be caused by orthostatic hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension refers to a temporary drop in blood pressure upon changing body positions—such as quickly rising from a lying or sitting position—leading to reduced blood flow and associated symptoms. These symptoms usually resolve spontaneously within a short time. It is advisable to avoid sudden postural changes in daily life to prevent dizziness or falls.

2. Iron Deficiency Anemia

If a middle-aged woman has a frail physique or suffers from malnutrition, she may develop iron deficiency, leading to reduced hemoglobin synthesis. This can easily trigger anemia, resulting in low blood pressure, arrhythmia, nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms. Treatment may include oral medications such as compound ferrous sulfate and folic acid tablets or iron dextran tablets, taken under medical guidance.

3. Coronary Atherosclerotic Heart Disease

This condition can impair the heart's pumping function, affecting circulation and causing low blood pressure. Symptoms may include chest tightness, shortness of breath, chest pain, and dizziness. Patients may take medications such as atorvastatin calcium tablets or isosorbide nitrate tablets as prescribed by their doctor.

In addition to the common causes mentioned above, low blood pressure may also be associated with hypothyroidism, myocardial infarction, chronic heart failure, and other conditions. If patients experience additional discomfort, they should visit a hospital for appropriate examinations to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment under medical supervision.