Hypotension: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Hypotension is characterized by abnormally low blood pressure. Generally, hypotension is defined as a systolic blood pressure below 90 mmHg and/or a diastolic blood pressure below 60 mmHg. It can be classified into several types: orthostatic hypotension, which occurs when standing up, and chronic constitutional hypotension.

Causes of Hypotension

The causes of hypotension can vary and include: 5 Heart failure 5 Myocarditis 5 Aortic or mitral stenosis 5 Congenital heart diseases 5 Constrictive pericarditis 5 Addison's disease 5 Pituitary insufficiency 5 Simmonds' disease 5 Anemia 5 Diseases causing severe weight loss and general health degradation, such as anorexia nervosa, tuberculosis, cirrhosis, or certain cancers. 5 Taking medications like antihypertensives, phenothiazines, and nitrate derivatives

Symptoms of Hypotension

Symptoms of hypotension can vary depending on severity and underlying cause, but generally include: 5 Chronic fatigue 5 Dizziness 5 Fainting 5 Headaches 5 Palpitations 5 Concentration problems 5 Visual disturbances 5 Anxiety and depression 5 Nausea

Treatment of Hypotension

Treatment of hypotension varies depending on its underlying cause and often combines lifestyle measures with medication. Some habits can help improve blood pressure and prevent fainting: 5 Increasing water and salt intake to maintain good blood volume. 5 Avoid standing up too quickly to reduce the risk of dizziness. 5 Wearing compression stockings or an abdominal belt to improve venous return. 5 Elevating the head of the bed at night to prevent morning hypotension. 5 Avoiding lying down for too long during the day. 5 Taking short cold showers on the legs to stimulate circulation. When lifestyle measures are not enough, medications may be prescribed: 5 Fludrocortisone (Florinef®): This medication increases plasma volume by promoting sodium and water retention. 5 Midodrine (Gutron®): An alpha-1 agonist that causes vasoconstriction of arteries and veins, thereby increasing blood pressure. 5 Erythropoietin: Used to treat anemia, it also improves orthostatic tolerance. 5 Sympathomimetics: Medications such as dihydroergotamine (Dihydergot®), ephedrine, or etilefrine (Effortil®) can be used to stimulate circulation. Medical follow-up is essential to tailor treatment to each situation.