Arterial hypotension corresponds to an abnormal drop in blood pressure.
“We speak of hypotension when blood pressure falls below 90 mmHg for systolic pressure and 60 mmHg for diastolic” first defines Dr Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of True Medical.
When blood flow decreases, organs – especially the brain – receive less oxygen and nutrients. “This poor irrigation explains the intense fatigue, dizziness or feeling of lightheadedness often reported by those affected.
Fatigue, dizziness, malaise: how to recognize hypotension?
In some cases, hypotension can cause nausea, palpitations, or even faintness or loss of consciousness. When it occurs when getting up too quickly, we speak of orthostatic hypotension. This phenomenon is common in people who already have somewhat low baseline blood pressure.
“But one of the first signs mentioned is fatigue.
emphasizes Dr. Kierzek. For what ? Quite simply because the brain, less well supplied with oxygen, struggles to maintain a normal energy level.
“This feeling may be accompanied by dizziness, blurred vision, or a feeling of floating. Some people also describe difficulty concentrating, a general feeling of weakness or a feeling of ’empty head’” adds our expert.
When the drop in blood pressure is more sudden, discomfort or syncope may occur, sometimes preceded by palpitations. “All of these symptoms result from insufficient blood flow to the organs, which temporarily unbalances their functioning.”
Why does the voltage drop?
The causes of hypotension are multiple. “Dehydration is one of the most common, as a lack of water reduces blood volume. Meals that are too heavy, heat, alcohol, an unbalanced diet or certain pathologies can also promote a drop in blood pressure. says the doctor.
The phenomenon is even more marked in people who get up quickly, because the blood remains partly blocked in the legs instead of rising to the brain. Dr Gérald Kierzek points out that treatment always depends on the origin of the hypotension and that medical advice may be necessary when symptoms become recurrent.
Hydration, diet, good habits: how to act on a daily basis?
The first instinct is to increase your hydration. “Regularly drinking water, herbal teas or lightly salted drinks helps support blood volume. Diet also plays a central role.
In fact, the sodium contained in salt helps the body retain more water. It can therefore help to slightly raise blood pressure, provided it is consumed with caution in hypertensive people.
“Intake of vitamin B12 and iron are also important to promote the formation of red blood cells, essential for the transport of oxygen. They are found for example in eggs, meat or green vegetables.”
The magnesium present in nuts, dark chocolate or whole grains helps reduce muscle and nervous fatigue. “At the same time, it is advisable to avoid excessively large meals, which divert blood flow to the digestive tract, as well as alcohol, which can accentuate the drop in blood pressure. recommends Dr. Kierzek.
Finally, everyday actions matter just as much. Getting up gradually, avoiding sudden changes in position and practicing gentle physical activity help limit feelings of discomfort.
When does medical treatment become necessary?
In certain situations, hypotension requires specific treatment. “If the discomfort is repeated, if fatigue becomes debilitating or if the drop in blood pressure is accompanied by loss of consciousness, a doctor may suggest tests to identify a possible underlying cause such as anemia or chronic dehydration.” specifies the emergency doctor.
“In some cases, medication may be prescribed to stabilize blood pressure.“. This type of treatment always requires medical monitoring, because blood pressure must be monitored to adjust therapy and avoid excessive variations.