While many of us are aware of the hazards of high blood pressure, low blood pressure (Hypotension) is equally prevalent and dangerous. The normal pressure value is 120/80 mmHg, where 120 denotes the systolic pressure and 80 refers to the diastolic pressure. If blood pressure is 90/60 mmHg or less, it is referred to as low blood pressure. Health problems occur when blood pressure drops suddenly, and the brain is deprived of an adequate blood supply. Sudden drops in blood pressure most commonly occur in someone who’s rising from a prone or sitting position to standing. Medically, this is referred to as orthostatic hypotension. This can lead to dizziness, light-headedness, blurred vision, shortness of breath, and so on.
The cause of low blood pressure isn’t always clear. Some of the common causes for low blood pressure include: nutritional deficiencies, pregnancy, overdose of high blood pressure medication, loss of blood from bleeding, heart issues, diabetes, or low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia). The risk of both low and high blood pressure normally increases with age, an estimated 10 to 20% of people over age 65 have postural hypotension. Mild hypotension does not require treatment and adding electrolytes to the diet can improve the condition. Here are some home remedies for low blood pressure.
1. Increase your salt intake
Intake a little more salt in your meals. This is the most common home remedy for low blood pressure. But don’t overdo this remedy, as excess salt can prove to be unhealthy. Your doctor can tell you how much salt you need, and whether it will be sufficient to simply add salt to your food. If your doctor suggests using more salt but you don’t like a lot of salt on your food, try using natural soy sauce or adding dry soup mixes to dips and dressings.
Drink adequate water — a minimum of eight glasses per day. Drinking adequate water helps to avert dehydration leads to low blood pressure. Low calorie sports drinks (such as Gatorade, Powerade) that have electrolytes like sodium and potassium are also good choices. But you should avoid alcohol, which can lead to dehydration.
3. Wear Compression Stockings
If needed, use compression stockings or tights that cover the calf and thigh. When you stand, blood usually pools in your legs due to gravity. Compression stockings help decrease this blood pooling and minimize low blood pressure symptoms. Consult your doctor regarding their use.
4. Beetroot Juice
Another very effective and most commonly used home remedy for low blood pressure is beetroot juice. Research has shown that compared with those drinking water, people having beetroot juice cut their systolic pressure by about 10 mm Hg. For low blood pressure, drink a cup of beetroot juice twice daily for about one week.
5. Increase Caffeine Intake
Having a cup of strong coffee, hot chocolate, cola, or any caffeinated beverage can also temporarily increase your blood pressure. The usual dose of caffeine to alleviate low blood pressure symptoms is 100 to 250 mg, three times daily with meals. Avoid caffeine at night, as this could interfere with sleep. However, one should consult doctor as caffeine can cause other problems.
6. Almonds and Milk
This is another traditional home remedy for low blood pressure. Soak 7 almonds in water over night. Peel them and grind to a smooth paste. Add in a glass of milk and boil. Drink warm a cup of this every morning.
Tips:
If your blood pressure falls too low, call a doctor immediately. While waiting for medical help, you need to lie down and lift your legs above heart level. This helps to bring the blood flow to your brain, and it could avoid you losing consciousness. If you want more information, have a look this video:
