Everyone’s got two feet, or at least most of us do. Staying upright on them comes fairly naturally for all of us. But if you faint, you will be off your feet quickly with no control as to where you end up falling and what takes the brunt of impact. The worst-case scenario is you faint, fall, and hit your head. The reason we are talking about this is because one of the biggest risks with low blood pressure is that you may faint unexpectedly, and if you are standing up when that happens you could be in trouble. But how low is dangerous blood pressure? Dyslexic syntax aside, we will answer that question here.

It is true that hypertension tends to get nearly all of the hype when people talk about blood pressure concerns in any way, and high blood pressure is entirely deserving of all the warnings about health risks associated with it. They will mention strokes and vision degeneration along with kidney disease, but one of the potential problems that is not talked about enough is metabolic syndrome. All of this will have nothing to do with how low is dangerous blood pressure though, so we will get back on track.

Any blood pressure reading below 90-over-60 is what will qualify as low blood pressure, and this is what’s known as absolute hypertension if it is what the person experiences no matter of their posture at the time. Postural hypotension is different, and it is worth its own mention if we are going to discuss how dangerous low blood pressure is. This is when your blood pressure drops when you stand up from a seated position, or it can also be when you get out of bed in the morning.

There is more to how low is dangerous blood pressure though, and the one risk crossover between hypotension and hypertension is related to your ticker, and we all know how the importance of heart health.

Stay Steady

An arrythmia is an abnormal heart rhythm. While they are not always the biggest cause for concern, having your heartbeat irregularly can progress into cardiac failure over time if no steps are taken to address the issue. And irregular heartbeat is one of the potentially dangerous side effects of both hypotension and hypertension. A blood pressure medication should keep most people safe from this possibility.

However, medication won’t be as much of a safeguard if the low blood pressure is caused by an infection or sudden blood loss because of hemorrhaging. Looking at how low is dangerous blood pressure beyond numbers it is when hypotension is caused by septic shock or something similar that the person is going to be in the most danger. What can happen here is a condition called hypoperfusion, when vital organs don’t get enough blood flow and oxygen because of low blood pressure.

Taking your blood pressure at home with a kit is easy, and for some people it will be recommended.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for your pet. See your veterinarian for medical advice and treatment for your pet if you have any concerns.