How Much Do You Know About Low Blood Pressure?
There's a lot of information about the dangers of high blood pressure, but low blood pressure can endanger your health, too.
1. How is low blood pressure, or hypotension, defined?
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Optimal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The exact level that marks low blood pressure differs from person to person, although the official definition of low pressure is a blood pressure below 90/60, according to the NHLBI. The American Heart Association (AHA) goes further, stating that low blood pressure is blood pressure that is low enough to cause symptoms of lightheadedness or fainting. The body uses several mechanisms to regulate blood pressure. It can expand or constrict blood vessels; change the amount of blood pumped from the heart; or change the amount of blood pumped through blood vessels. These mechanisms help blood pressure return to normal after changes brought on by eating, exercise, sleep, or position. Although chronic low pressure may be a sign of disease, it also can indicate good physical conditioning. Athletes often have low blood pressure.
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