If you recognize these warning signs, it’s time for a blood pressure check.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
One of the most common symptoms of low blood pressure is dizziness or feeling lightheaded. This can be caused by a drop in blood flow to the brain, which can occur when blood pressure is too low. If you frequently feel dizzy or lightheaded, especially when standing up or changing positions, it may be a sign that your blood pressure is too low.
- Fainting or near-fainting episodes
Fainting, also known as syncope, can be a serious sign of low blood pressure. If your blood pressure drops too low, it can cause a decrease in blood flow to the brain, leading to a loss of consciousness. If you have experienced fainting or near-fainting episodes, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the cause.
- Fatigue or weakness
Feeling tired or weak can also be a symptom of low blood pressure. When your blood pressure is too low, your body may not be getting enough oxygen and nutrients to function properly, leading to feelings of fatigue and weakness. If you frequently feel tired or weak, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the cause.
- Nausea or vomiting
Low blood pressure can also cause feelings of nausea or vomiting. This can be due to a decrease in blood flow to the digestive system, which can cause digestive symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. If you have experienced these symptoms and suspect they may be due to low blood pressure, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.
- Blurred vision
Blurred vision can also be a sign of low blood pressure. When blood pressure is too low, there may not be enough blood flow to the eyes, leading to changes in vision. If you have experienced blurred vision and suspect it may be due to low blood pressure, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.
- Cold, clammy skin
Low blood pressure can also cause changes in the appearance and feel of your skin. If your blood pressure is too low, your skin may feel cold and clammy to the touch. This can be a sign that your body is not getting enough blood flow. If you have experienced cold, clammy skin and suspect it may be due to low blood pressure, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.
- Rapid, shallow breathing
Rapid, shallow breathing can also be a sign of low blood pressure. When blood pressure is too low, the body may compensate by increasing the rate and depth of breathing in an attempt to get more oxygen. If you have experienced rapid, shallow breathing and suspect it may be due to low blood pressure, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.
- Chest pain
Although low blood pressure is generally not considered a cause of chest pain, it can sometimes occur in conjunction with other underlying conditions that cause chest pain. If you have experienced chest pain and suspect it may be due to low blood pressure, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.
- Difficulty concentrating
Low blood pressure can also cause difficulty concentrating or focusing. When blood pressure is too low, there may not be enough blood flow to the brain, leading to changes in cognitive function. If you have experienced difficulty concentrating and suspect it may be due to low blood pressure, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider.
- Rapid pulse
A rapid pulse can also be a sign of low blood pressure. When blood pressure is too low, the body may compensate by increasing the heart rate in an attempt to increase blood flow.