> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.sonohealth.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Causes and When to Worry

> What counts as low blood pressure, common causes, the symptoms that matter, what orthostatic hypotension is, and when low readings need medical attention.

Most home blood pressure advice focuses on high readings, but low blood pressure — hypotension — has its own questions. For many people a low number is simply a sign of good cardiovascular health; for others it causes symptoms that deserve attention.

<Warning>
  If low blood pressure comes with fainting, confusion, a weak and rapid pulse, cold clammy skin, or follows major bleeding or injury, treat it as an emergency and call 911.
</Warning>

## What counts as low blood pressure?

Blood pressure below about **90/60 mm Hg** is generally labeled low, but there's no single cutoff that means trouble. Many healthy, fit people run low without any symptoms, which is usually fine. What matters is whether the low reading comes with symptoms.

## What symptoms can low blood pressure cause?

When blood pressure drops too far for your body, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded, blurry, nauseated, fatigued, or faint. These happen because the brain briefly isn't getting enough blood flow. Occasional mild lightheadedness on standing is common; frequent or severe symptoms are worth investigating.

## What is orthostatic hypotension?

Orthostatic (postural) hypotension is a drop in blood pressure when you **stand up**, causing a head-rush or dizziness. It's more common in older adults and can be triggered by dehydration, certain medications, or prolonged bed rest. Rising slowly and staying hydrated helps; persistent episodes should be checked by a doctor.

## What causes low blood pressure?

Common causes include dehydration, heat, certain medications (including some blood pressure and heart drugs), blood loss, prolonged standing, pregnancy, and some endocrine or heart conditions. Because the list is broad, recurring symptomatic low readings warrant a medical evaluation rather than self-diagnosis.

## How do I track it at home?

Use good [measurement technique](/blood-pressure/how-to-measure-at-home) and log readings along with how you feel and your position (sitting vs. just stood up). A consistent record from an upper-arm monitor like SonoHealth's **BPpro** or **BPMAX** helps your doctor see whether the lows are situational or a pattern.

***

**Related:** [Normal Blood Pressure by Age](/blood-pressure/normal-blood-pressure-by-age) · [Understanding Systolic and Diastolic](/blood-pressure/understanding-systolic-diastolic) · [How to Measure at Home](/blood-pressure/how-to-measure-at-home)