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Low blood pressure or hypotension is a relatively common condition. The blood circulating in the arteries exerts a certain amount of pressure on the vessels, which is recorded in terms of blood pressure. The blood pressure is recorded as systolic and diastolic pressure, the average being 120/80mm Hg. A condition is which the blood pressure is chronically lower than 90/60mm Hg is called a hypotension. The patients suffering with low blood pressure can experience dizziness and fainting on certain occasions.

Low blood pressure cases are marked by light headedness and dizziness while one is sitting down or getting up. Most of us are not familiar with the symptoms of low blood pressure and hence cannot rule out the situation. This can lead to confusion and panic. However, it is best to keep in mind some first aid tips to tackle low blood pressure:

1.Breathe deeply
In most of the cases of low blood pressure, the patient feels dizzy and nauseous before fainting. If the patient is taken care of during this phase, he/she can be helped. Ask the patient to breathe deeply. This would lead to transport of more oxygen to the blood and to the brain.
Unconsciousness or fainting occurs when there is no proper oxygen supply to the brain. Breathing deeply restores the supply and thus, helps the patient.

2. Hydrate
Transient low blood pressure may occur due to excessive dehydration. Make the patient sit down and give a glass of water. Adding salt or glucose powder can also restore the electrolyte and glucose balance in the body and thus, maintain the blood pressure.

3.Lay her down
If the patient passes out, lay her down. It is also better to elevate his legs a little as it helps in circulation of blood from the extremities. There should be no pillow under the head as to enable proper blood supply to the brain. If necessary, also remove any tight socks or stockings from the legs.
 
4.Do not gather around the patient
We encounter situations when people gather around a patient to ensure his well being. However, this shall be avoided. There should be proper ventilation where the patient sits so as to enable him to breathe easily.

5.Try to bring the patient to consciousness
The patient should be talked to and be brought back to consciousness. Normally, just talking to the patient can work but at times, if necessary spraying water on the patient’s face or hands can work too.

If the patient faints due to low blood pressure, he/she usually regains consciousness in 2-3 minutes. However, if the patient fails to do so, it is best to call an ambulance. A little presence of mind and alert attitude can save a life. If the patient falls down on fainting, ensuring that there has not been any physical injury is also a must. Certain injuries in the head can even be fatal for his/her life. As they say, “it is better to save than sorry”. So it is important for everyone to know these tips for saving lives.
 

Tags : Women, blood pressure, control, measure