Forgotten with blood pressure, hypotension, unlike hypertension, rarely arouses concern. However, it can cause spectacular discomforts, or even justify emergency hospitalization. Let’s take stock with Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of True Medical.
How is hypotension defined?
“”The hypotension is defined by a systolic pressure less than 90 mmHg and/or diastolic less than 60 mmHg “ First of all, Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor. “”Unlike hypertension, it is often benign, but can cause discomfort“.
In most cases, this fall in tension occurs transiently, but it can be a reflection of a deeper imbalance. The body then tries to compensate, sometimes at the cost of a heart mattress or a brutal collapse of vigilance.
What are the signs of disturbing hypotension?
Some symptoms go unnoticed, others are more frank. “”The signs vary according to gravity: dizzy or dizziness, especially by rising suddenly, what is called orthostatic hypotension; Disorder vision, intense fatigue, nausea, cold sweats or palpitations … “ Specifies Dr. Kierzek.
The causes of hypotension are multiple. Some are banal such as dehydration linked to heat or diarrhea. Others are more serious: cardiac disorders, hypotensive drugs, anemia or endocrine diseases such as hypothyroidism or Addison’s disease.
In more severe forms, loss of consciousness can occur brutally. But the alert becomes serious in the presence of neurological disorders. “”Hypotension becomes a medical emergency in the event of confusion, difficulty in speaking, weak and fast pulses, difficult breathing or prolonged loss of consciousness “ insists our expert.
What if someone does a discomfort by hypotension?
Faced with a tension drop, good gestures can change everything. “”Lie the person, raise their legs to promote blood influx to the brain, hydrate it with water or a slightly salty drink, and avoid sudden movements“Recommend Dr. Kierzek. If the person loses consciousness, the lateral security position is essential, as is the immediate call on 15.
The first reflexes are essential, but the context is just as much. If the discomfort occurs in the heat, after a generous meal, or in a person under treatment, vigilance must be reinforced.
“”It is also necessary to think of prevention, by drinking between 1.5 and 2 liters of water per day, by eating regularly to avoid hypoglycaemia, and by limiting alcohol or too heavy meals “ Add the doctor. In some cases, especially in the event of orthostatic hypotension, wearing compression stockings may be useful.
When should you consult a doctor?
A slightly low tension is not necessarily a problem. But if discomfort is repeated, medical advice is essential. “”Consult if the symptoms are frequent, if you take medication that can cause hypotension, or if associated signs such as chest pain or shortness of breath appear“Advises Dr. Kierzek.
A medical record can then impose itself. “”An electrocardiogram, a cardiac ultrasound or biological analyzes looking for anemia or a metabolic disorder such as diabetes may be necessary “ he concludes. The objective is to dismiss a serious cause and to adapt, if necessary, treatment or lifestyle.