A count of 120/80mmHg is ideal blood pressure. Any number above indicates an elevated blood pressure or hypertension. Conversely, any reading lower than 90/60 mmHg is considered hypotension or low blood pressure. While hypertension usually garners the maximum spotlight during discussions about blood pressure, it is important to note that hypotension, although reversible, can also pose a potential risk.
The symptoms of hypotension and their severity can vary from one person to another. However, the common symptoms include loss of balance, blurred vision, dizziness, and vomiting or nausea. Moreover, it can affect one’s mental well-being by causing an emotional unease. While these symptoms require immediate medical attention, in certain cases the symptoms are mild and not worrisome.
Underlying cause of hypertension
“Before suggesting the line of treatment, it is important to understand the underlying cause of hypertension,” says Dr Sharanya Sasi, an ayurveda expert, Belgaum, Karnataka. Some of the common causes of hypotension include acute infections, inadequate sleep, dehydration, a heavy carbohydrate lunch, blood loss or anaemia, nutritional deficiency, adrenal fatigue, and high stress.
The effective management of mild-moderate hypotension often involves lifestyle adjustments. Low blood pressure could also be due to poor nutrients in the diet, and one must add the necessary vitamins, especially B12, B9, folate, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Tips to manage hypotension
Expert’s recommendations include increasing salt intake (Himalayan pink salt or rock salt), improving hydration, and incorporating light exercises such as yoga or walking. “Include smaller frequent meals with warm, nourishing foods in the diet. Try including warming soups, stews, seasonal fruits, cooked vegetables, and whole grains,” says Dr Sasi. Avoid excessive consumption of cold, raw, high-carbohydrate food and foods high in potassium, she adds. According to 2010 review, lifestyle modifications like increased water intake before a meal and substituting six smaller meals daily for three larger meals may be an effective management for post prandial hypotension (drop in blood pressure after eating).
“Ayurvedic detoxification procedures, shirodhara or oil dripping therapy and abhyanga or body massage may help eliminate toxins, balance the doshas, and support overall wellness,” says Dr Sasi. Practising stress reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, pranayama, or breathing exercises, can help balance emotions and reduce anxiety. This indirectly helps to manage the hypotension caused due to high-stress levels.
It is a good idea to combine the therapy with nutritional and herbal support. Home remedies, and lifestyle changes that can offer additional benefits, say experts. Here are some tips to raise low blood pressure naturally.
