What should you know about constant low blood pressure?

Low blood pressure, also called hypotension, means blood pressure is not pushing blood through the body as effectively as usual. Some people have no symptoms. Others may notice dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, weakness, tiredness or fainting, especially after standing, eating or being unwell. Causes can include dehydration, blood loss, medicines, heart problems or changes in the body’s automatic blood-pressure control.

Record when symptoms occur, what you were doing and any medicines or supplements you take. Rise slowly from bed or a chair, drink fluids unless a clinician has restricted them, and avoid driving if you feel faint. Arrange a GP Consultation for repeated readings or symptoms; the clinician may check blood pressure lying and standing and review possible causes.

Seek urgent help for fainting with injury, confusion, severe weakness, chest pain, breathlessness, cold clammy skin or signs of significant bleeding. New or worsening Dizziness, repeated fainting, or inability to keep fluids down also warrants prompt medical advice.

Ask whether your medicines could lower blood pressure, whether you need lying-and-standing measurements, and which symptoms should trigger urgent help.