103 55 blood pressure. Blood Pressure 103/55: Understanding Low Blood Pressure and Its Implications
What are the symptoms of low blood pressure. How can you measure blood pressure accurately at home. When should you be concerned about a blood pressure reading of 103/55. What lifestyle changes can help manage low blood pressure.
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings: Decoding 103/55
Blood pressure is a vital sign that provides crucial information about your cardiovascular health. A reading of 103/55 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) is considered low blood pressure, also known as hypotension. To fully grasp the implications of this reading, it’s essential to understand what these numbers represent.
The first number, 103, is the systolic pressure. This measures the force exerted on artery walls when the heart contracts and pumps blood. The second number, 55, is the diastolic pressure, which indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.
What Constitutes Normal Blood Pressure?
According to the American Heart Association, a normal blood pressure reading is typically below 120/80 mmHg. However, what’s considered “normal” can vary slightly from person to person. Generally, blood pressure readings are categorized as follows:
- Normal: Less than 120/80 mmHg
- Elevated: 120-129/less than 80 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 1: 130-139/80-89 mmHg
- Hypertension Stage 2: 140/90 mmHg or higher
- Hypertensive Crisis: Higher than 180/120 mmHg
Where does 103/55 fall on this scale? This reading is classified as hypotension, or low blood pressure, as it’s below the threshold of 90/60 mmHg.
Implications of Low Blood Pressure: When 103/55 Becomes a Concern
While high blood pressure often receives more attention due to its association with various health risks, low blood pressure can also be problematic. A blood pressure reading of 103/55 may or may not be cause for concern, depending on various factors.
Is low blood pressure always a problem? Not necessarily. Some individuals naturally have lower blood pressure without experiencing any adverse effects. However, if low blood pressure is accompanied by symptoms or occurs suddenly, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention.
Common Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure
When blood pressure drops too low, it can lead to inadequate blood flow to vital organs. This can result in various symptoms, including:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fainting (syncope)
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Lack of concentration
- Cold, clammy skin
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Depression
If you experience these symptoms along with a blood pressure reading of 103/55, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors for Low Blood Pressure
Understanding the potential causes of low blood pressure can help in determining whether a reading of 103/55 is a cause for concern. Several factors can contribute to hypotension:
- Dehydration
- Blood loss
- Certain medications (e.g., diuretics, alpha-blockers, beta-blockers)
- Heart problems (e.g., heart valve issues, heart failure, low heart rate)
- Endocrine disorders (e.g., thyroid problems, adrenal insufficiency)
- Neurological disorders
- Severe infections (septicemia)
- Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12 deficiency)
- Pregnancy
- Prolonged bed rest
Are certain individuals more prone to low blood pressure? Yes, some people are at higher risk of developing hypotension. Risk factors include:
- Age: Older adults are more susceptible to low blood pressure
- Certain medical conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, diabetes)
- Taking multiple medications
- Pregnancy
- Prolonged inactivity or bed rest
Measuring Blood Pressure Accurately: Ensuring Reliable Readings
Accurate blood pressure measurement is crucial for proper diagnosis and management of hypotension. While 103/55 may indicate low blood pressure, it’s essential to ensure the reading is accurate and consistent.
Tips for Accurate Blood Pressure Measurement
- Use a properly calibrated and validated device
- Measure at the same time each day, preferably in the morning and evening
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco for at least 30 minutes before measurement
- Empty your bladder before taking the reading
- Sit quietly for 5 minutes before measurement
- Position your arm at heart level, supported on a flat surface
- Take multiple readings and calculate the average
- Record your readings to track trends over time
Can home blood pressure monitors provide accurate readings? Yes, many home blood pressure monitors are highly accurate when used correctly. Look for devices that are validated by organizations such as the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI), the British Hypertension Society (BHS), or the European Society of Hypertension (ESH).
Managing Low Blood Pressure: Strategies to Raise 103/55
If your blood pressure consistently reads around 103/55 and you’re experiencing symptoms, there are several strategies you can employ to manage low blood pressure:
Lifestyle Modifications
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Increase salt intake: Under medical supervision, as excessive salt can be harmful
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals: This can help prevent postprandial hypotension
- Avoid alcohol: It can lead to dehydration and lower blood pressure
- Exercise regularly: Helps improve circulation and overall cardiovascular health
- Wear compression stockings: Can help prevent blood pooling in the legs
- Stand up slowly: Prevents sudden drops in blood pressure
- Avoid prolonged standing: Take frequent breaks to sit or walk around
Medical Interventions
In some cases, medical interventions may be necessary to manage persistent low blood pressure:
- Medication adjustments: Your doctor may modify dosages or change medications
- Fludrocortisone: Helps increase blood volume
- Midodrine: Constricts blood vessels to raise blood pressure
- Droxidopa: Used for neurogenic orthostatic hypotension
How long does it take to see improvements in blood pressure? The time frame for improvement can vary depending on the underlying cause and the interventions employed. Some lifestyle changes may show results within a few weeks, while others may take several months to have a significant impact.
When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags for 103/55 Blood Pressure
While a blood pressure reading of 103/55 may not always require immediate medical attention, there are certain situations where you should consult a healthcare professional promptly:
- Sudden onset of low blood pressure
- Persistent symptoms despite lifestyle modifications
- Fainting episodes
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Severe headache
- Blurred or loss of vision
- Difficulty speaking
- Weakness on one side of the body
Should you go to the emergency room for low blood pressure? If you experience severe symptoms or signs of organ damage, such as chest pain or neurological symptoms, it’s crucial to seek emergency medical care immediately.
Long-term Outlook: Living with Low Blood Pressure
For many individuals, a blood pressure reading of 103/55 may not cause significant problems if it’s not accompanied by symptoms. However, it’s essential to monitor your blood pressure regularly and work with your healthcare provider to manage any underlying conditions.
Potential Complications of Chronic Low Blood Pressure
While low blood pressure is often less concerning than high blood pressure, chronic hypotension can lead to complications if left unaddressed:
- Falls and injuries due to fainting
- Cognitive impairment in older adults
- Reduced blood flow to vital organs
- Increased risk of heart problems in people with heart disease
Can low blood pressure be cured permanently? In many cases, low blood pressure can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medical interventions. However, the underlying cause will determine whether it can be completely cured or requires ongoing management.
Prevention Strategies: Maintaining Healthy Blood Pressure
While some factors contributing to low blood pressure may be beyond your control, there are several strategies you can employ to help maintain a healthy blood pressure:
- Stay physically active: Regular exercise helps improve circulation and heart health
- Maintain a balanced diet: Ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals
- Manage stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can lead to dehydration and lower blood pressure
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly: This helps you identify trends and potential issues early
- Attend regular check-ups: Discuss your blood pressure readings with your healthcare provider
Is it possible to prevent low blood pressure entirely? While it may not be possible to prevent all cases of low blood pressure, adopting a healthy lifestyle and addressing underlying health conditions can significantly reduce your risk of developing hypotension.
Understanding Blood Pressure Variability: Why 103/55 May Fluctuate
Blood pressure is not a static measurement; it can fluctuate throughout the day and in response to various factors. Understanding these fluctuations can help you interpret your 103/55 reading more accurately.
Factors Influencing Blood Pressure Variability
- Time of day: Blood pressure typically follows a circadian rhythm
- Physical activity: Exercise can temporarily raise blood pressure
- Stress levels: Emotional stress can cause short-term spikes in blood pressure
- Meals: Blood pressure may drop slightly after eating
- Hydration status: Dehydration can lead to lower blood pressure
- Body position: Blood pressure can change when moving from lying down to standing
- Temperature: Extreme heat or cold can affect blood pressure
- Full bladder: Can temporarily raise blood pressure
How much can blood pressure fluctuate in a day? It’s normal for blood pressure to vary by 30-40 mmHg systolic and 20 mmHg diastolic throughout the day. However, consistent readings of 103/55 or lower, especially if accompanied by symptoms, warrant further investigation.
Technological Advancements in Blood Pressure Monitoring
As technology continues to evolve, new tools and devices are emerging to help individuals monitor and manage their blood pressure more effectively. These advancements can be particularly useful for those with consistently low readings like 103/55.
Innovative Blood Pressure Monitoring Devices
- Wearable blood pressure monitors: Provide continuous monitoring throughout the day
- Smartphone-connected devices: Allow easy tracking and sharing of data with healthcare providers
- Cuffless blood pressure monitors: Use optical sensors to measure blood pressure without a traditional cuff
- AI-powered analysis: Helps identify patterns and potential health risks
- Telehealth integration: Enables remote monitoring and consultation with healthcare professionals
How accurate are these new blood pressure monitoring technologies? While many of these devices show promise, it’s important to use FDA-approved devices and validate their accuracy against traditional clinical measurements. Always consult with your healthcare provider before relying solely on new technologies for blood pressure management.
In conclusion, a blood pressure reading of 103/55 indicates low blood pressure, which may or may not be cause for concern depending on individual circumstances. By understanding the implications, causes, and management strategies associated with low blood pressure, you can take proactive steps to maintain your cardiovascular health. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment plans, especially if you experience persistent symptoms or sudden changes in your blood pressure readings.
103/55 blood pressure – is it good or bad?
Home > Resources > Blood pressure lookup > 103/55
Maintaining a healthy blood pressure throughout your life is one of the most important things you can do for long-term health and longevity. Whether you’re looking up a blood pressure of 103/55 for yourself or a loved one or simply out of your own curiosity, you’re taking the right steps by being informed and empowering yourself or someone else to be their own best advocate.
According to the American Heart Association, a blood pressure reading of 103/55 would be considered
hypotension, or low blood pressure. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is defined by a systolic reading (the top number) of less than 90 or a diastolic reading (the bottom number) of less than 60. Low blood pressure generally isn’t considered an issue unless it causes symptoms (such as dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting) or unless it drops suddenly.
Okay, now you know how to classify a blood pressure of 103/55, but now what do you do with that information? Read on to learn more or look up another blood pressure reading.
What is a good blood pressure reading?
According to the American Heart Association, a normal blood pressure reading is lower than 120/80. While there is no specific number for low blood pressure, most experts say blood pressure is too low when it causes symptoms or drops suddenly. In general, though, low blood pressure can be considered anything under 90/60.
More information about a blood pressure reading of 103/55
A blood pressure reading of 103/55 is pronounced “103 over 55.” You may also see it written colloquially as 103/55 bp.
In a blood pressure reading of 103/55, 103 is called the systolic number and 55 is called the diastolic number. Systolic refers to the part of the cardiac cycle in which the heart contracts and pumps blood from the chambers into the arteries, and diastolic refers to the part of the cardiac cycle in which the heart relaxes and allows the chambers to fill with blood. You may also hear the systolic and diastolic numbers referred to as the top number and the bottom number.
Systolic and diastolic readings are measured in mmHg, which is a unit of pressure equal to the pressure that can support a column of mercury 1 millimeter high. Hg is the chemical symbol for mercury. For a blood pressure reading of 103/55, you would pronounce it “103 over 55 millimeters of mercury.”
How do you measure blood pressure?
In a doctor’s office, blood pressure is traditionally taken manually by a doctor or nurse with a sphygmomanometer. A sphygmomanometer is a medical instrument with an inflatable cuff and pressure meter or dial. The sphygmomanometer is placed snugly around the upper arm and is inflated by hand, and the doctor or nurse listens to the brachial artery with a stethoscope as they gradually reduce the pressure of the cuff. When the whooshing sound of blood is first heard through the stethoscope, the doctor or nurse makes note of the reading on the pressure meter. This indicates the systolic blood pressure reading. When the sound disappears, the reading on the pressure meter indicates the diastolic pressure reading.
Blood pressure can also be taken at home using a number of a digital devices. They typically consist of an inflatable cuff and digital display and simply work by placing the cuff around the upper arm and pressing a button, after which the cuff inflatess, deflates, and displays a reading. The most popular blood pressure machines for home use are made by Omron, Beurer, and Paramed, amongst many others.
One thing to keep in mind is that blood pressure can vary by time of day and activity level, so if you’re taking it at home it’s important to check it around the same time each day and rest for a few minutes ahead of time to limit as many variables as possible. It can also be affected by eating.
Blood pressure tends to rise in the hours before waking and then drop in the afternoon and evening before dropping to its lowest point while sleeping, so one popular recommendation is to check it just after waking up and just before bed to identify trends in how it varies from morning until night. Because of this, you might find that if your blood pressure is 103/55 in the morning, it might be lower before bed, and vice versa. Of course, these are just general rules of thumb and may vary by the individual.
Relevant HSA expenses
If you have an HSA as part of your health insurance plan, you’ll be pleased to find that blood pressure monitors, blood pressure cuffs, and wrist blood pressure monitors are all eligible, including smart blood pressure monitors like the offerings from Qardio and Withings.
How the heck do you pronounce sphygmomanometer?
Sphygmomanometer is pronounced sfig-moh-muh-‘nah-mi-ter. Easy!
Explore blood pressure readings similar to 103/55
The following table shows related blood pressure readings because sometimes just one number can make all the difference.
Please note that if a field is blank, it’s not an accident—it simply means a record doesn’t exist for that particular blood pressure. This could be because going forward or backward would create a blood pressure reading that wouldn’t make sense, or because that blood pressure simply doesn’t exist in our records.
← Prev systolic num | Next systolic num → |
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102/55 blood pressure | 104/55 blood pressure |
← Prev diastolic num | Next diastolic num → |
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103/54 blood pressure | 103/56 blood pressure |
Sources
- Understanding blood pressure readings – American Heart Association
- High blood pressure – Mayo Clinic
- Get the most out of home blood pressure monitoring – Mayo Clinic
- Blood pressure – Wikipedia
- How to pronounce sphygmomanometer – Dictionary.com
Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended to be an educational reference and is not to be taken as medical advice. If you think you’re having a hypertensive or hypotensive emergency, or if you’re having any kind of medical emergency, please call 911 immediately.
Pediatric Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
Pediatric Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
Hypotension, also called low blood pressure, happens when blood pressure falls below the normal range.
What is Pediatric Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)?
Normal blood pressure is between 90/60 and 130/80.
- The top number, or systolic pressure, is a measurement of the pressure in the arteries when the heart muscle contracts.
- The bottom number, or diastolic pressure, is a measurement of the pressure in the arteries between beats of the heart.
Hypotension, or low blood pressure, happens when your child’s blood pressure falls below the normal range. A drop in blood pressure is not always a cause for concern, and the severity of the situation depends on the cause.
What are the different types of Pediatric Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)?
Three main types of low blood pressure in children include:
Neurally mediated hypotension
This type of low blood pressure primarily affects children, and they usually outgrow it by adulthood. The blood pressure drop happens when a child has been standing for a long time.
Orthostatic hypotension
This type of low blood pressure occurs when a child sits or stands up suddenly. It is a common reason for a drop in blood pressure and your child’s body will typically correct to normal blood pressure within a few seconds.
Severe hypotension
This life-threatening drop in blood pressure happens suddenly when a child has an infection, has an anaphylaxis allergic reaction or experiences a traumatic injury that causes sudden blood loss. When severe hypotension occurs, it prevents oxygen from getting to the brain and other organs, leading to serious problems or can even be fatal.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)?
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Dizziness (vertigo)
- Fainting
- Feeling weak
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sleepiness
What are the causes of Pediatric Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)?
The most common causes of low blood pressure in a child include:
- Anaphylaxis (life-threatening) allergic reaction
- Arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm)
- Certain medications, including painkillers and anti-anxiety medicines
- Dehydration
- Drinking alcohol (teenagers)
- Heart conditions
- Infection
- Sudden position change, such as standing up quickly
Pediatric Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) Doctors and Providers
Mouin Seikaly, MD
Pediatric Nephrologist
Soumya Adhikari, MD
Pediatric Endocrinologist
Chelsea Anderson, MD
Pediatrician Newborn Medicine
Michel Baum, MD
Pediatric Nephrologist
Elizabeth Brown, MD
Pediatric Nephrologist
Keri Drake, MD
Pediatric Nephrologist
Jyothsna Gattineni, MD
Pediatric Nephrologist
Halima Janjua, MD
Pediatric Nephrologist
Ximena Lopez, MD
Pediatric Endocrinologist
Jessica Morse, MD
Pediatrician Newborn Medicine
Raymond Quigley, MD
Pediatric Nephrologist
Joseph Schneider, MD
Pediatrician Newborn Medicine
Muraleedharan Sivarajan, MD
Pediatrician Newborn Medicine
Kaili Stehel, MD
Pediatrician Newborn Medicine
Smitha Vidi, MD
Pediatric Nephrologist
Matthias Wolf, MD
Pediatric Nephrologist
Sudha Mootha, MD
Pediatric Endocrinologist
Robin Landgraf, APRN, PNP-PC
Nurse Practitioner – Nephrology
What does lower blood pressure show: what does a lower blood pressure indicator mean in a person – April 6, 2021
Blood pressure (also known as blood pressure) is the pressure that blood exerts on the walls of blood vessels. When measuring it, two types are determined: with each heartbeat, blood pressure fluctuates between the largest (systolic) and the smallest (diastolic). In colloquial speech, they are called upper and lower.
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Why do we need two indicators?
High and low pressure separation is more for doctors than for patients. But doctors do not separate them from each other, so there is no need to memorize or evaluate separately the numbers of the lower pressure – they are associated with the numbers of the upper one.
– The upper number – systolic blood pressure – shows the pressure in the arteries at the moment when the heart contracts and pushes blood into the arteries, it depends on the strength of the contraction of the heart, the resistance exerted by the walls of the blood vessels, and the number of heartbeats per unit time, – explains cardiologist Maria Benevskaya. – Therefore, in general, we can say that this indicator reflects the work of the heart, although, of course, other factors also take part in this process.
Maria Benevskaya – Associate Professor of the Department of Hospital Therapy named after. Academician P. E. Lukom Medical Faculty of the Russian National Research Medical University. N. I. Pirogova, candidate of medical sciences, cardiologist, therapist, doctor of functional diagnostics.
The lower number shows the pressure in the arteries at the time of relaxation of the heart muscle, it reflects the tone of the peripheral vessels.
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What should the lower pressure be?
As we have said, this number should not be considered on its own, but in the context of upper pressure.
– The ideal difference between them is within 40-50 mm Hg. Art. That is, for example, 120 to 80, 100 to 60, 110 to 70. When a patient sees deviations in the lower pressure, for example, it is very low (40, 50, 30), then this is a reason to see a doctor, because this may indicate some kind of pathology, most often cardiological, says cardiologist Natalya Gulyaeva.
Natalya Gulyaeva — cardiologist, candidate of medical sciences.
High lower blood pressure indicates that vascular tone is increased, and this carries a risk of cardiovascular complications such as stroke.
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What does it mean if the difference is more than normal?
Natalya Gulyaeva says that low lower blood pressure can be not only in the case of cardiac pathology, but also in a malnourished person – hunger, illness (for example, with oncological pathology or severe diseases of the gastrointestinal tract), dehydration. This may be due to the individual characteristics of the body, but in any case it is better to consult a doctor so as not to miss the disease.
– An increase in the difference may be due to osteochondrosis of the cervical spine, aggravated by malnutrition of the brain (most often vertebrobasilar insufficiency). Diseases of the musculoskeletal system lead to a weakening of cerebral blood flow. Hence the problems with upper and lower pressure in general, says Maria Benevskaya.
Often low values of diastolic pressure, especially in elderly patients, may indicate damage to the heart valves. Malformations (aortic stenosis with aortic valve insufficiency) and inflammatory heart disease (endocarditis), as well as myocardial infarction, can lead to damage to the heart valves.
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What if the difference is less than the norm?
A small difference may indicate the presence of atherosclerosis of the aorta (deposition of cholesterol in the largest vessel), damage to the kidney vessels, aortic aneurysm (pathological expansion of a separate section of the aorta with the possibility of rupture or dissection of the walls due to excessive load), anemia (decrease in hemoglobin level in the blood) and many other conditions.
And this is not the whole range of pathologies that affect this parameter, so a change in the indicator can be a wake-up call in order to pay attention to your health.
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When should I measure pressure?
The fact that the pressure is not normal can be indicated by a lot of symptoms: general weakness, and an unmotivated feeling of malaise, fatigue, rapid pulse, unusual tachycardia, headaches, dizziness, feeling of fainting, impaired vision, hearing.
“You need to pay attention to these symptoms at any age, even if a child complains of headache and weakness,” says Gulyaeva. – If there are no symptoms, you still need to see a doctor once a year, because failures can be asymptomatic, but lead to serious problems later. Smokers and those who have an irregular work schedule, constant lack of sleep need to be especially careful to monitor their blood vessels. I see from my patients that this is a huge contribution to the deterioration of health.
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How to measure blood pressure at home?
If you notice that your blood pressure readings are not normal, you should see a doctor, even if you do not have any other symptoms. But first you need to prepare.
— 5-7 days you need to monitor the pressure at home, in the usual calm environment, advises Natalya Gulyaeva. – You need to measure it in the morning within half an hour after waking up in comfortable clothes and a comfortable position. Three times measured, recorded the average figure. The same thing needs to be done in the evening, not running from work or training, but in a calm home environment. This home pressure monitoring will be important for the doctor, because in the office patients often worry and give increased numbers.
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What else to read about health?
- Why a blood clot forms and how to avoid it;
- Is there a stroke in young people and is there any prevention;
- What tests should everyone have every year.
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90,000 high pulse and low pressure at the same time: what to do, Treatment
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How to take measurements correctly
Sometimes low pressure readings with a high heart rate can be the result of an incorrect measurement. The procedures are carried out when the patient is in a calm state, 40-60 minutes after eating. Do not move or talk during the measurement. Pressure is measured on both hands, with an interval between procedures of 3-5 minutes.
Pulse measurement should also be taken when the patient is at rest. You can’t talk, move or laugh. To count the pulse, fingers are applied to the wrist. It is not recommended to measure the pulse in the area of the carotid artery, since the data obtained will be unreliable.
How a person feels
With low blood pressure and a rapid pulse, the patient has the following symptoms:
- headache and dizziness;
- nausea and vomiting;
- pain and burning sensation in the chest area;
- difficulty breathing;
- severe weakness and fatigue;
- increased heart rate;
- decreased visual acuity;
- lack of coordination, poor orientation in space.
In severe cases, the patient is in a fainting state, he needs immediate medical attention.
Causes of condition
An increase in heart rate against the background of low blood pressure causes a decrease in the volume of blood circulating in the body.
The reasons for this condition may be:
- dehydration due to poisoning, infectious diseases, intestinal disorders, excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, diabetes mellitus;
- large blood loss – the causes may be ulcers, cirrhosis of the liver, the presence of malignant tumors;
- severe pathologies of the liver and kidneys;
- hormonal imbalance caused by thyroid disorders;
- disorders of the autonomic system;
- panic attacks – severe fright, increased anxiety;
- chronic fatigue, lack of sleep;
- iron deficiency anemia, provoking a decrease in hemoglobin in the blood;
- incorrect intake of certain medicines;
- excessive physical and emotional stress, exhausting diets;
- state of pain shock.
In some cases, a similar pathology is noted in expectant mothers in the second half of pregnancy. This is due to an increase in blood volume and changes in the hormonal system. But by childbirth, blood pressure indicators usually stabilize.
This condition occurs more often in elderly patients. This is due to age-related wear of the heart muscle and blood vessels. The fragility of blood vessels, their loss of elasticity is the reason that they cannot fully contract and regulate the level of pressure.
Whatever the causes of the pathological condition, it must be brought back to normal. A decrease in blood pressure against the background of an increase in the frequency of heart contractions carries the risk of heart attacks or strokes. When feeling unwell, patients often lose consciousness, which leads to severe bruises and fractures. Expectant mothers are at risk of losing a child.
If the patient is fainting or has convulsions, it is necessary to call an ambulance.
What to do before the doctors arrive
Helping a sick person before the arrival of an ambulance team consists in performing the following actions:
- provide the patient with oxygen – open the window, unbutton the collar of the shirt, loosen the belt or belt;
- help the person to take a horizontal position, the legs should be above the level of the head;
- induce vomiting by pressing a spoon on the root of the tongue;
- give the patient a sedative – tincture of valerian or motherwort;
- Ammonia will help bring the patient to consciousness;
- severe shortness of breath and blueness of the lips can be symptoms of a heart attack, before the ambulance arrives, you need to give the patient a Nitroglycerin tablet under the tongue;
- Monitor the patient’s pulse and blood pressure levels.
Until the doctors arrive, you can not give the patient medications, they are prescribed only by a specialist.
Diagnostics
Sometimes low blood pressure against the background of increased heart rate can be observed in relatively healthy people after heavy physical exertion or moral experiences. In this case, the person’s condition stabilizes after rest and positive emotions.
In other situations, treatment is required, but before that, patients must undergo a thorough diagnosis to determine the cause of the health problems.
The patient is shown the following procedures:
- general and biochemical blood tests – help to detect anemia, the presence of inflammatory processes, diseases of internal organs;
- blood sugar test;
- x-ray – a study will reveal the presence of stones or pneumonia;
- electrocardiogram – necessary to monitor the condition of the heart muscle;
- hormonal studies – are prescribed for suspected thyroid pathologies.
According to the indications, the patient can be assigned consultations of an endocrinologist and a neurologist.
Treatment
The prescribed complex treatment will help to normalize high blood pressure and pulse. At the same time, the task of doctors is to eliminate the main causes that caused such a serious condition.
Drug therapy involves the appointment of a patient with drugs that maintain vascular tone, improve the functioning of the endocrine system, and accelerate blood circulation and metabolism. Additionally, vitamins are prescribed that improve the functionality of the heart muscle.
The patient must comply with the drinking regime in order to eliminate dehydration and its consequences.
If the cause of the condition was bleeding, a blood transfusion and iron supplementation will be needed to prevent anemia.
The drugs that provoked the pathology should be canceled, instead of them, the patient is selected safe analogues.
If a sharp drop in pressure was caused by the use of alcohol or drugs, the patient is given detoxification therapy.