What are the causes of low blood pressure in the elderly?

In general, low blood pressure in the elderly may be caused by genetic factors, postural changes, anemia, hypothyroidism, heart failure, and other reasons. If the above conditions occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Genetic Factors

Some elderly individuals may have a naturally lower blood pressure level due to familial genetic predisposition. They should maintain a balanced diet and engage in moderate physical activity in daily life.

2. Postural Changes

The elderly often have reduced adaptability to changes in body position. When standing up quickly from a lying or sitting position, gravity causes blood to pool in the lower limbs, leading to insufficient blood supply to the brain and resulting in orthostatic hypotension. It is important to take self-protective measures during position changes, such as rising slowly.

3. Anemia

Anemia in the elderly is commonly caused by malnutrition or chronic diseases. Anemia leads to reduced blood volume, affecting the pressure of blood against vessel walls and thus causing the aforementioned symptoms. It may be accompanied by pallor, dizziness, palpitations, and other symptoms. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, Ejiao Blood Tonic Granules, and Yiqi Weixue Granules for treatment.

4. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is usually caused by decreased production of thyroid hormones. Insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones leads to a reduced metabolic rate, slower circulation, and decreased cardiac output, thereby causing low blood pressure. Symptoms may include fatigue, constipation, etc. Treatment should follow medical guidance using medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid tablets, and selenium yeast tablets.

5. Heart Failure

Heart failure may be associated with coronary artery disease, hypertension, valvular heart disease, and other conditions. In heart failure, impaired systolic and diastolic function of the heart reduces its ability to pump blood effectively, decreasing peripheral circulating blood volume and consequently leading to low blood pressure. Symptoms may include dyspnea, edema, etc. Medications such as digoxin tablets, furosemide tablets, and nitroglycerin tablets should be used under a doctor's supervision.

Elderly individuals should closely monitor their health status, pay special attention to changing positions slowly, maintain balanced nutrition, and engage in moderate exercise to enhance cardiopulmonary function, which helps maintain stable blood pressure.