Blood pressure less than 90/60 is considered low. You don’t need to be treated for low blood pressure unless you have symptoms.
You’ve probably heard a lot about high blood pressure and the serious health problems it can cause.
What about low pressure? Can it cause problems, too?
Unlike high blood pressure, low blood pressure usually is not a cause for concern, said Dr. Jennifer Strong, a Marshfield Clinic family medicine physician.
Low blood pressure sometimes can be harmful, but life-threatening problems are rare.
Not a problem unless it causes symptoms
Textbooks define low blood pressure as less than 90/60, but having low blood pressure isn’t always a problem. Some young, healthy people naturally have low blood pressure and don’t have any symptoms.
“Low blood pressure with no symptoms isn’t a medical problem and doesn’t cause any short-term or long-term problems,” Strong said.
Other people get dizzy, lightheaded or faint when their blood pressure drops. Get medical help if you experience these symptoms for the first time or have them frequently. Certain medications, medical conditions or even dehydration can cause low blood pressure. Sitting or standing up too quickly also can make blood pressure drop.
Staying hydrated and getting up slowly may be enough to manage blood pressure and occasional symptoms. If you continue to have symptoms, your doctor may refer you to a cardiologist to determine if you need medication to raise your blood pressure.
When low blood pressure gets serious
Severe low blood pressure can cause a rapid heart rate, rapid shallow breathing and even organ failure if your organs aren’t getting enough blood. Extremely low blood pressure may be a symptom of septic shock, a life-threatening condition caused by severe infection.
Strong reminds us, “slightly low blood pressure with no symptoms or occasional lightheadedness doesn’t mean you’re in for major problems down the road.”
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Why do doctor's keep people on high blood pressure medications when they have low blood pressure ?
Hi, Linda. I’m not sure where you received that information, but if you can share the source with me, I'd be happy to see if Dr. Strong has feedback for you.
If this is related to your blood pressure medications, I suggest you contact your doctor and ask him/her to clarify your treatment plan. You can contact your doctor via My Marshfield Clinic if you see a Marshfield Clinic provider: https://www.marshfieldclinic.org/MyMarshfieldClinic. -Kirstie
My blood pressure today is 131/60. Is that a good reading.
Hi Linda – Dr. Strong recommended contacting a nurse line or your care team for this question. They know your current medications, conditions and medical history best, which allows them to give you the most accurate answers and guidance.
Thank you for reading Shine365. – Kayla
I have a blood pressure monitor and my sister thinks the bottom number is too low
My blood pressure today 57/ 95.its means is low or normal
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out. We strongly recommended contacting a nurse line or your care team for this question. They know your current medications, conditions and medical history best, which allows them to give you the most accurate answers and guidance.
Thank you for reading Shine365. – Jake