Blood pressure is the force exerted on the arteries as the heart pumps blood throughout the body. Abnormal blood pressure occurs when this circulation is either faster (high) or slower (low) than normal, which can lead to severe health issues. This article discusses the symptoms, causes, and remedies for hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypotension (low blood pressure).
Types of Blood Pressure Readings
Normal Blood Pressure: Less than 120/80 mm Hg
Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Less than 90/60 mm Hg
Elevated Blood Pressure: Between 120-129/80 mm Hg
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Greater than 130/80 mm Hg
Symptoms of Abnormal Blood Pressure
| Symptoms of High Blood Pressure | Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure |
| Headaches | Dizziness |
| Shortness of breath | Fainting |
| Nasal congestion | Blurry vision |
| Facial redness | Nausea |
| Dizziness | Extreme tiredness |
| Chest pain | Difficulty concentrating |
| Fatigue and confusion | |
| Visual disturbances | |
| Irregular heartbeat | |
| Excessive sweating | |
| Difficulty sleeping |
Causes of Abnormal Blood Pressure
High Blood Pressure:
Primary Hypertension: Develops gradually without a clear cause, more common in older adults.
Secondary Hypertension: Caused by existing health conditions such as:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
Kidney Disease.
Thyroid Problems.
Adrenal Tumors.
Certain medications (e.g., birth control, decongestants, steroids)
Illegal drugs (e.g., cocaine, amphetamines)
Other lifestyle factors that can contribute to high blood pressure include
Excessive weight.
High salt intake.
Lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet.
Inactivity.
Excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption.
Smoking.
Chronic stress.
Inadequate sleep.
Hereditary factors.
Diabetes and autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, scleroderma).
Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure may occur due to:
Pregnancy.
Heart problems (e.g., heart failure, arrhythmia).
Endocrine issues (e.g., Addison’s disease, low blood sugar).
Severe dehydration.
Blood loss (e.g., from injury or internal bleeding).
Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
Nutritional deficiencies.
Long-term bed rest or certain medications.
Table focusing only on blood pressure readings, symptoms, and causes
| Category | Normal Blood Pressure | Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) | High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) |
| Blood Pressure Reading | Less than 120/80 mm Hg | Less than 90/60 mm Hg | Greater than 130/80 mm Hg |
| Common Symptoms | None or mild fatigue | – Dizziness | – Headaches |
| – Fainting | – Shortness of breath | ||
| – Blurry vision | – Chest pain | ||
| – Nausea | – Fatigue and confusion | ||
| Common Causes | – Healthy lifestyle | – Dehydration | – Obesity |
| – Pregnancy | – Excessive salt intake | ||
| – Heart issues | – Smoking |
Risks of Abnormal Blood Pressure:
High Blood Pressure Risks:
Artery Damage: High blood pressure can make arteries less flexible, leading to narrowing and accumulation of fatty deposits, which can eventually cause heart attack or stroke.
Heart Damage: Increased pressure forces the heart to work harder, potentially leading to arrhythmias, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest.
Brain Damage: Reduced blood flow due to high blood pressure can lead to conditions like Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs), strokes, or cognitive impairment.
Low Blood Pressure Risks
Low blood pressure can cause dizziness, fainting, and potentially lead to organ failure as the body doesn’t receive enough oxygen. Severe hypotension can result in sudden death if untreated.
Remedies for Abnormal Blood Pressure
For High Blood Pressure:
Dietary Changes:
Follow the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, while reducing processed foods, excessive salt, and refined sugars.
Reduce salt intake, avoid excessive sugar and refined carbs.
Garlic has been shown to lower blood pressure naturally. Consider including it in your diet.
Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption.
Lifestyle Modifications
Engage in regular physical activity (e.g., walking, swimming, or cycling) to improve heart health.
Maintain a healthy weight. Losing even 5-10% of your body weight can lower blood pressure.
Quit smoking to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Get enough sleep—aim for 8-9 hours per night.
Practice stress-relief techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
For Low Blood Pressure
Dietary Recommendations:
Eat small, frequent meals to avoid post-meal blood pressure drops.
Increase salt intake moderately, but consult your doctor first.
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water and fruit juices, to maintain hydration.
Caffeine can help raise blood pressure in some people, so consider drinking a cup of tea or coffee in case of a sudden drop.
Home Remedies
Basil (Tulsi) leaves are rich in nutrients and help normalize blood pressure. Consume them regularly.
Almond paste mixed with milk is also known to help raise low blood pressure.
Conclusion
Abnormal blood pressure, whether high or low, poses significant health risks if left unchecked. Regular monitoring, healthy lifestyle practices, and dietary changes are essential in managing blood pressure levels. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a more tailored approach and potential medication.
FAQs
1. What is considered normal blood pressure?
Ans: Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg.
2. What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
Ans: Symptoms may include headaches, shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest pain.
3. What causes low blood pressure?
Ans: Causes include dehydration, pregnancy, heart problems, and severe blood loss.
4. How can I raise low blood pressure naturally?
Ans: Increase salt intake, stay hydrated, eat small meals, and drink caffeinated beverages.
5. Can stress affect blood pressure?
Ans: Yes, chronic stress can lead to increased blood pressure over time.
My self Anita Sahani. I have completed my B.Com from Purbanchal College Silapathar. I am working in Dev Library as a Content Manager. A website that provides all SCERT, NCERT 3 to 12, and BA, B.com, B.Sc, and Computer Science with Post Graduate Notes & Suggestions, Novel, eBooks, Health, Finance, Biography, Quotes, Study Materials, and more.
