Blood pressure serves as a fundamental indicator of overall health, reflecting the force with which blood circulates through the body. This measurement comprises two distinct numbers: systolic and diastolic. While high blood pressure often receives considerable attention, understanding the implications of low blood pressure, particularly the diastolic reading, is equally important for well-being.
Understanding Diastolic Blood Pressure
Diastolic blood pressure represents the lower number in a blood pressure reading. It measures the pressure within your arteries when your heart rests between beats, as the heart chambers refill with blood. This phase is crucial because coronary arteries, which supply the heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood, receive their primary blood flow during this time.
The top number, systolic pressure, indicates the pressure when your heart contracts and pushes blood out. The diastolic reading plays a distinct role in assessing cardiovascular health. Sufficient diastolic pressure ensures the heart muscle receives adequate nourishment and oxygen, preventing potential weakening.
Identifying Low Diastolic Blood Pressure
Low diastolic blood pressure, often termed isolated diastolic hypotension, occurs when the diastolic reading falls below a certain threshold while systolic pressure remains healthy. A diastolic reading below 60 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) is generally considered low. This indicates that pressure in the arteries during the heart’s resting phase might be insufficient.
While a reading below 60 mm Hg signals low diastolic pressure, its clinical significance depends on an individual’s overall health and whether symptoms are present. Some individuals naturally have lower blood pressure without adverse effects. However, studies suggest that diastolic readings consistently below 60 mm Hg can increase the risk of cardiovascular damage and conditions like heart failure, especially in older adults.
Common Causes
Several factors can contribute to a decrease in diastolic blood pressure. Aging is a common contributor, as arteries can stiffen over time, which tends to increase systolic pressure while lowering diastolic pressure. Certain medications, including some used to treat high blood pressure, can also reduce pressure during the heart’s relaxation phase.
Dehydration, resulting from insufficient fluid intake or excessive fluid loss, can lead to reduced blood volume and lower blood pressure. Underlying health conditions, such as heart problems, can also impair the heart’s ability to maintain adequate diastolic pressure. Endocrine disorders, severe infections, and anemia can further impact blood pressure regulation, leading to lower readings.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Seek medical advice if low diastolic blood pressure is accompanied by noticeable symptoms. The presence of symptoms indicates that the body’s organs may not be receiving sufficient blood flow, even if some people naturally have low blood pressure without issues. Symptoms that warrant medical attention include dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting, particularly when changing positions rapidly.
Other concerning signs include blurred vision, unusual fatigue or weakness, nausea, and cold, clammy skin. Persistent low diastolic readings, even without severe symptoms, should also prompt a discussion with a healthcare provider. This allows for an evaluation of potential underlying causes and a determination of whether adjustments to medications or lifestyle changes are necessary to ensure proper organ perfusion and overall cardiovascular health.