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Hypotension Specialist

Metro Renal Associates Our Services Hypotension

Metro Renal Associates

Nephrologists located in Washington, DC & Capitol Heights, MD

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, tends to get less attention than its counterpart, high blood pressure. Nonetheless, hypotension can prove dangerous, particularly to older patients who might experience a hypotension-related fall. If you’re experiencing low blood pressure because of medication or other medical reasons, the team at Metro Renal Associates in Washington, DC, can assess how to best relieve your symptoms and return you to your feet. Call the office or use online booking to schedule an appointment today.

Hypotension Q & A

What is hypotension?

Hypotension specifically refers to abnormally low blood pressure levels. For many people, occasional low blood pressure doesn’t cause any problems, though sudden drops in blood pressure can lead to side effects.

 

What causes hypotension?

Blood pressure levels are subjective, so what is low blood pressure for you might not be low blood pressure for someone else. Numerous events can drop your blood pressure below their standard levels, including:

Dehydration

Dehydration is a common cause of hypotension and tends to affect athletes and those living in hot climates most often.

Allergic reactions

Severe allergic reactions to foods, medications, insect stings and other allergens can cause anaphylaxis, which often then causes a severe drop in blood pressure.

Medications

Certain medications can cause low blood pressure. Examples include medications for Parkinson’s disease, erectile dysfunction, certain antidepressants, and alpha or beta blockers.

Your risk for hypotension is especially great if you take multiple medications that lead to low blood pressure. If this is the case, the team at Metro Renal Associates discusses alternatives with you to the medications you’re currently taking.

 

What are the symptoms of hypotension?

Hypotension symptoms generally appear suddenly, usually just after the sudden drop in blood pressure, and may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Nausea
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Fainting

 

More extreme cases of hypotension can lead to shock. If you’re experiencing shock symptoms, such as confusion, shallow breathing, cold and clammy skin, or a weak pulse, you should seek immediate medical attention.

 

How is hypotension treated?

If your hypotension doesn’t cause symptoms, you generally shouldn’t require any treatment. If it comes from an underlying cause, such as certain medications, the team at Metro Renal Associates addresses the problem, such as changing your prescription medications.

If your low blood pressure has no clear cause, the team at Metro Renal Associates might advise taking steps to raise your blood pressure, such as adding more salt to your diet, drinking more water, or wearing compression stockings.

If you’re suffering from low blood pressure, let the team at Metro Renal Associates in Washington, DC, help. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

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