Normal resting blood pressure for adults ranges from ≥ 90/60 mmHg to < 130/80 mmHg. Low blood pressure is defined as readings below 90/60 mmHg.
Individuals newly experiencing low blood pressure accompanied by symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest pain should seek immediate medical attention. Healthcare providers will screen for severe acute conditions. A doctor will take a medical history, perform a clinical examination, and measure blood pressure multiple times. Diagnostic tests may include an electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, blood tests, and checks for adrenal and thyroid hormones to determine the cause. Conditions requiring hospitalization include septic shock, hypovolemic shock, adrenal insufficiency, acute myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, heart failure, rapid or slow arrhythmias, or severe valvular heart disease.
Patients with multiple underlying medical conditions or those taking blood pressure-lowering medications or diuretics should consult a doctor immediately for appropriate medication adjustment.
Regarding your blood pressure, which frequently fluctuates around 88/56 mmHg: if you experience fatigue, dizziness upon changing position, or if it impacts your daily activities, a medical examination is necessary to identify the cause. Beyond routine tests, specialized diagnostic procedures such as the carotid sinus massage test and tilt table test may be performed. In some cases, individuals, particularly thin women, naturally have relatively low blood pressure without any associated symptoms.
If you have no underlying medical conditions and are not taking blood pressure-lowering medications, focus on lifestyle adjustments. Drink sufficient water, about 1,5 to 2 liters daily, and slightly increase your salt intake if you do not have heart or kidney disease. Eat a complete breakfast, prioritizing protein and fiber-rich foods like eggs, milk, oats, and whole-wheat bread, to prevent morning blood pressure drops. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding overeating can also help limit post-meal blood pressure decreases.
Avoid sudden positional changes when waking up; drink a glass of warm water before getting out of bed to support circulation. When changing positions, especially when standing up or getting out of bed, do so slowly and incorporate gentle leg stretches to prevent dizziness. Regular light exercise, such as walking, yoga, or cycling, improves blood circulation and overall cardiovascular health. Limit alcohol and coffee consumption, as these beverages can cause vasodilation and lower blood pressure.
Wearing compression stockings or an abdominal binder can be effective in preventing orthostatic hypotension. Doctors only prescribe blood pressure-raising medication when a patient has clear symptoms affecting their quality of life or does not respond to lifestyle modifications. When medication is used, a specialist must closely monitor the patient due to potential side effects such as increased blood pressure while lying down, arrhythmias, fluid retention, or edema.
Dr. Le Ngoc Anh, Master of Science
Department of Cardiology
Tam Anh General Hospital, Hanoi
