Living With Hypotension

Doctors often can successfully treat hypotension. Many people who have the disorder live normal, healthy lives.

If you have low blood pressure, you can take steps to prevent or limit symptoms, such as dizzy spells and fainting.

If you have orthostatic hypotension, get up slowly after sitting or lying down. Eat small, low-carbohydrate meals if you have postprandial hypotension (a form of orthostatic hypotension).

If you have neurally mediated hypotension, don’t stand for long periods. Also, drink plenty of fluids and try to avoid unpleasant or scary situations. Learn to recognize symptoms and take action to raise your blood pressure. Children who have NMH often outgrow it.

Other lifestyle changes also can help you control low blood pressure. For more information, talk to your doctor and see “How Is Hypotension Treated?”

Ask your doctor about learning how to measure your own blood pressure. This will help you find out what a normal blood pressure reading is for you. Keeping a record of blood pressure readings done by health professionals also can help you learn more about your blood pressure.

Severe hypotension linked to shock is an emergency. Shock can cause death if it’s not treated right away. If a person has signs or symptoms of shock, someone should call 9–1–1 right away.