We all know people who suffer from high blood pressure and that usually means an adjusted diet, exercise, and even medications. But if you have low blood pressure, does that mean you are in the clear? Not necessarily, especially as we get older.
Today on
Good Morning Maryland @ 9's "Elder Care" series, Jamie talked to Dr. Alicia Arbaje from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine about everything blood pressure related. They especially talked about why low blood pressure could cause problems as we age and why we should monitor our blood pressures when we are not at the doctor's office.
To hear Dr. Arbaje's advice and get more information, click on the video box to the right. We have also provided some of her notes below.
Notes from Dr. Alicia Arbaje
How Low is too Low?
Managing Blood Pressure When You are Older
Treating high blood pressure is important to prevent heart attacks, strokes, kidney diseases, and other problems for older adults. However, some older adults may be at risk for problems stemming from low blood pressure as a result of these treatments.
Why can low blood pressure be a problem for older adults?
- Circulation to the brain changes with age, and older adults may need a slightly higher blood pressure to "push" more blood and oxygen to the brain
- They may pass out, fall and break a bone
- They may experience a decline in their mental abilities
Who is at risk?
- Those over age 75, and especially those over 85
- Those taking more than one blood pressure medication
- Those taking water pills, or diuretics
What are some common symptoms of low blood pressure and when do they occur?
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, low energy, fainting
- Unsafe drops in blood pressure can occur after coughing, meals, using the bathroom, or while getting up after sitting or lying down.
What can older adults or their caregivers do?
- As your healthcare provider what is the right blood pressure for you
- Keep a record of blood pressures at home
- Normal is about 120-130 over 70-80 mm Hg.
- Write down how long ago the person took their blood pressure medications
- At times, check blood pressure in different positions: lying, sitting, standing
- Rest for at least 5 minutes before taking blood pressure
- Rise from a lying or sitting positions slowly so the body can adapt - Maintain adequate fluid intake as recommended by a healthcare provider
- DON'T STOP OR MAKE CHANGES to your blood pressure medications without talking to your healthcare provider
