Don’t take hypotension lightly. Follow these 5 tips to manage low blood pressure

How many times do you get your blood pressure checked? Well, if you think that you are way too young to have BP problems then we would like to tell you that you are highly mistaken. And unfortunately, if you have been taking it lightly, then it might cost you big time later. 

So, should you worry about having a low BP? The answer is yes, absolutely! Instead of panicking though, you make small lifestyle changes to ensure you’re not attacked by hypotension aka low blood pressure.

To help you with that we have Dr Nimit Shah, consultant interventional cardiologist at Sir H N Reliance Hospital, who will help you understand this problem and share tips on managing it.  

What are symptoms of low blood pressure?
According to Dr Shah, “Low blood pressure can be described as blood pressure that is low enough that the flow of the blood to one’s body organs is inadequate, and one may exhibit symptoms such as dizziness, light-headedness, and even fainting, increased thirst, shallow breathing, tiredness, chest pain, and nausea.” 

What causes hypotension?
“The causes for it are reduced blood volume, heart disease and medications. You will be shocked to know that improper blood flow to the organs of the body can invite strokes, heart attacks, kidney failure and even shock,” Dr Shah says,

Can it be managed?
Thankfully, it can be managed by making few changes in your daily routine. 

Dr Shah says:

It is essential to follow some vital tips such as having an adequate amount of salt, drinking a lot of fluids, and taking medications recommended by your doctor. The senior doctor shares these suggestions to manage low blood pressure.

Follow these five tips to manage your low blood pressure:

1. Take a well-balanced diet which is rich in nutrients
Did you know that having low levels of vitamin B-12, folic acid, and iron can invite anaemia? Dr Shah says, “It can occur when the body cannot make enough blood. Not only this, but anaemia can also lower one’s blood pressure. It is important to eat fresh fruit and vegetables. Limit your carb intake and eat smaller meals to prevent that sudden drop in blood pressure.”

2. Include salt in your diet after discussing it with your doctor
Yes, that’s correct. Dr Shah advises that sodium content in salt can help you raise your blood pressure. So, just consult your doctor about the foods you must include and exclude in the diet, and amount the right amount of salt intake.

3. Stay away from alcohol
Alcohol can lead to dehydration and cause low blood pressure, among a host of other issues.

4. Stay hydrated
If you are not drinking enough water, then you are doing it all wrong. Dehydration can lead to low blood pressure. So, up your fluid intake right away. Recommendation is to drink at least three litres of water per day if you do not have a weak heart or kidney disease.

5. Exercising is a must
Do light exercises that do not strain your body and enhance the blood circulation. Walking or yoga can be helpful.

So, take good care of your health and stay in constant touch with your doctor to lead a normal life even with low BP or hypotension.

(With inputs from IANS)