Hypotension

Hypotension is a condition of low blood pressure. It may be mild, even without symptoms, but also has the potential to be life threatening. Hypotension is also frequently associated with various shocks.

Symptoms:

Acute allergic reaction (life threatening)
Chest pain
Diarrhea (prolonged)
Dizziness
Dysphagia
Dysuria
Fainting
Fatigue
Fever (above 101 degrees Farenheit)
Foul-smelling urine
Headache
Irregular heartbeat
Lightheadedness
Productive cough
Seizure
Shortness of breath
Stiff neck
Unconsciousness
Upper back pain
Vomiting (prolonged)

Causes:

Acidosis
Anaphylactic shock
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
Angiotensin II receptor blockers
Arrythmia
Beta blockers
Calcium channel blockers
Decreased cardiac output
Dehydration
Diuretics
Nitrates
Reduced blood volume
Sepsis
Shock
Vasodilation (excessive)

Risk factors:

Amyloidosis
Addison's disease
Anemia
Central nervous system disorders
Diabetes
Endocrine disorders
Heart attack
Heart valve disorders
Hyperthyroidism
Hypothyroidism
Infection (severe)
Low blood sugar
Parkinson disease
Pulmonary embolism
Shy-Drager syndrome
Viral heart infection

Complications:

Cardiogenic shock
Death
Organ failure
Reduced blood flow
Vasodilatory shock

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of hypotension is made by a doctor or medical professional. Measuring blood pressure is often the first option. Testing may also be undergone, including abdominal ultrasounds, blood cultures, blood electrolyte measurements, CAT/CT scans, chest x-rays, complete blood count (CBC), cortisone level measurements, echocardiograms, electrocardiograms (EKG), urine cultures, and others.

Treatment

Treatment for hypotension may be decided based on its cause. If hypotension is asymptomatic in a healthy person, it may not require treatment. Additional sodium intake might relieve symptoms in mild cases of hypotension. Severe hypotension may be treated with medications, including systemic vasoconstrictors.

Prevention

Prevention of hypotension takes into consideration the underlying cause of the condition. As dehydration is a common issue, ensuring that enough fluids are consumed is one option. Prolonged bed rest may result in hypotension, so it can also be avoided in an attempt to prevent the condition. In many situations, however, hypotension cannot be prevented.

See also:

Blood Pressure
Hypertension

Synonyms and other key terms:

Neurocardiogenic syncope
Orthostatic hypotension
Postprandial hypotension

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Undiag - Undiagnosed Symptoms and Diseases

Hypotension