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By: Jennifer Bradley, Staff Writer
Many times low blood pressure isn’t serious.
However, if a caregiver sees a trend of low readings
and the symptoms above in their loved one, it’s time
to seek medical attention. Sometimes these small
symptoms all add up to a larger, more serious
problem.
So, how low is low? There is no good answer, as
every person’s normal is unique. Many experts
believe that 115/75 is optimal, and low to be 90/60.
Only one of the numbers has to be in the low range
to be considered “low blood pressure.”
A caregiver can help a loved one prevent low blood
pressure by implementing these simple home
practices, recommended by Mayo Clinic.
- Drink more water. Fluids increase blood
volume and prevent dehydration; so important for
those with low blood pressure.
- Follow a healthy diet.
- Go slowly when changing body positions. This
will reduce dizziness. Mayo recommends a person
with low blood pressure take a few deep breaths
before sitting up in bed, then rising slowly. An
elevated position for the head also helps the
effects of gravity.
- Eat small, low-carb meals. This helps limit
the trend of blood pressure dropping sharply
after meals. Drinking caffeinated coffee or tea
with meals may also help increase blood pressure
during that time.
- Use more salt. Many people are encouraged to
limit their salt intake. For someone with low
blood pressure, however, salt can be a good
thing. Make sure a loved one checks with their
doctor about the amount of salt to use,
depending on other health conditions.
- Wear compression stockings. This helps
relieve the blood that pools in veins and
increase blood flow throughout the body.
- Medications. Several medications are
available to treat low blood pressure. Make sure
a loved one consults their physician for any
possible medication benefits.
Low blood pressure is something that can be
recognized and treated early on. As a caregiver,
it’s important to have a basic knowledge of the
symptoms and also ways to maintain healthy blood
pressure for a loved one. High or low, it is
essential to the body’s well-being.
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