What Causes Low Blood Pressure

By learning the causes of low blood pressure, you can decrease your health risks or help your loved ones avoid the condition. Individuals suffering from low blood pressure—or hypotension, for the medical students out there—are prone to dizziness, nausea, fatigue, blurred vision and even fainting. In severe cases, brain damage can occur.

Blood Loss. Loss of blood causes low blood pressure. Individuals involved in severe accidents risk falling into hypotension if major bleeding occurs. A trip to the emergency room is a better than decision than waiting for the bleeding to stop.

Dehydration. When you fail to replace the water that your body puts out, you run the risk of dehydration, which is another cause of low blood pressure. Keep your body hydrated when you’re exercising and when you’re bogged down by a severe fever.

Pregnancy. Pregnant women may experience hypotension. During pregnancy, changes in the circulatory system cause low blood pressure, especially in the early months.

Heart Troubles. Heart problems, such as heart attacks and heart valve issues, can cause low blood pressure. Many of these conditions disrupt the blood flow, resulting in poor circulation and hypotension.

Nutrient Deficiency. Without the proper nutrients, your body is susceptible to developing anemia. This condition limits your body’s ability to produce red blood cells, which ultimately causes low blood pressure. Vitamin B-12, a nutrient found in fish, cheese and eggs, can help you avoid hypotension—so keep your refrigerator stocked up on these foods.

Medications. Certain medications come with the side effect of causing low blood pressure. For example, alpha blocks, beta-blockers and antidepressants all have the potential to lead you to hypotension.

Allergies and Infections. When your body is fighting allergies and infections, low blood pressure may occur. Treat infections early and learn what substances cause allergic reactions in your body.