Blood pressure dropping

[Anonymousemouses]

I've been asked to take x2 daily blood pressure readings for a week.

My BP is usually between 110-120 (systolic) and 65-85 (diastolic).

Last night my blood pressure was 91/60, the systolic a bit lower than normal, but acceptable.

I forgot to take mine this morning, so have just done it. As I'd been moving about a lot and not 'sitting quietly for 5 minutes' I expected it to be fairly high, it was actually 89/42.

The machine is fine as DH's is still the upper limits of normal, but mine is pretty low, particularly the diastolic, which used to be much higher (until I measured this week it's been around 85 usually).

I do feel faint a lot, but I assumed it was high BP that was causing that, as my BP has been rising over the years, so no idea why it's dipped.

Anyone?

Are you drinking enough? That's a bloody pressure level that we would intervene at in hospital (I'm a nurse) particularly if you're symptomatic which you are by feeling faint.

First think we ask an able patient to do is drink plenty (at least a pint asap) and usually the BP comes up with that.

Your usual BP readings sound absolutely perfect btw but that reading today really is low.

I could be dehydrated as I keep getting dehydrated, so will try drinking more, thank you

I hate that feeling, I was able to reverse these symptoms by carbing up, increasing carbohydrates and the difference is amazing. Get your b12 checked too.

Dehydration is definitely one of the courses for hypotensive episodes so I'd stay on top of the fluids. Make an effort. If it's dehydration you should see your BP come up fairly quickly (couple of hours) if you down enough water.

I have very low blood pressure and manage it with hydrating (including electrolyte drinks if necessary), adding salt to food or eating crisps, and wearing compression socks.