Health Services - Low Blood Pressure
What Is Hypotension?
While high blood pressure (hypertension) is much more common in our society, there are those who suffer from lower blood pressure, known as hypotension.
For some people, having a low blood pressure reading doesn’t pose any problems or risks to their health. This is determined by asking two key questions:
What is your blood pressure when you are feeling well and healthy?
Do you have symptoms that may be attributed to lower blood pressure?
If your blood pressure is low and you feel well, it is less likely to be a concern. If you have no symptoms such as dizziness when moving from lying or sitting to standing, then lower blood pressure is not likely to be a cause for concern.
Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor for assessment.
- Feeling dizzy
- Feeling lightheaded
- Being low on energy
- In more severe cases: fainting or losing consciousness
When Hypotension Becomes a Problem
If you are experiencing symptoms due to hypotension, it may be:
A persistent issue requiring ongoing management
A short-lived problem that resolves itself or improves as other areas of your health improve.
What Is Considered Low Blood Pressure?
The average healthy blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg.
Blood pressure is considered low when:
Systolic pressure is below 100mmHg in men or below 90mmHg in women
Diastolic pressure is below 60mmHg in either sex
Why Fainting Is a Serious Concern?
Fainting and loss of consciousness can be dangerous—not just due to the underlying cause, but because they can lead to accidents, falls, and injuries.
Examples include:
Fainting from stress
Fainting during panic attacks
Fainting when straining to urinate or during bowel movements
Even if the cause isn’t harmful, the consequences—like falling, hitting your head, or losing consciousness while driving—can be severe or even fatal.
How Is Hypotension Diagnosed?
To find the cause, your doctor will:
Conduct a comprehensive medical history review
Recommend appropriate tests
In some cases, your medications may be contributing to low blood pressure—either unintentionally or by lowering it more than intended.
As your body changes with age or health, your response to medication can change too. Even long-term prescriptions may need adjusting.
When Did You Last Have Your Blood Pressure Checked?
If you’ve experienced dizziness, fatigue, fainting, or changes in your energy levels—don’t ignore it.
Book an appointment with one of our experienced GPs to discuss your symptoms and monitor your blood pressure safely.