More serious or lasting causes.
Some potentially more severe health issues can also cause low blood pressure, including
Nutrient deficiencies: These might involve vitamin B12 or folic acid.
Neurally mediated hypotension: This disorder causes a drop in blood pressure after the person has been standing up for a prolonged period.
Endocrine problems: These affect the regulation of the body’s hormones. One example is hypothyroidism, also known as an underactive thyroid.
Heart problems: These can limit how effectively the heart pushes blood around the body.
Septic shock: This is a potentially life threatening response to a severe bacterial infection.
Anaphylactic shock: This is a potentially life threatening complication of anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction.
In addition, loss of blood due to an injury can lead to low blood pressure.
Drug-based causes.
Low blood pressure may sometimes result from alcohol use or the use of certain medications, such as:
- diuretics
- hypertension medications
- heart medications, such as beta-blockers
- antidepressants
- erectile dysfunction medications
- medications for Parkinson’s disease.
Remedies
Foods to eat
The reason why someone has blood pressure will determine which foods or drinks may be beneficial to consume. A person should speak to their doctor to check.
Salt
Salt, or sodium chloride, affects hormones that control the body’s water balance. High salt intake can increaseTrusted Source blood pressure.
People who have low blood pressure may benefit from increasing their salt intake.
Ways to do this include:
- adding a pinch of salt to a glass of water
- seasoning food with salt
- eating salty foods, such as olives or anchovies
- choosing salted nuts as a snack
Foods high in vitamin B12 and folate: , a deficiency in vitamin B12 and folate can cause anemia, leading to low blood pressure. A doctor can test a person’s blood to see whether they are deficient in these essential nutrients.
Vitamin B12 foods
Good dietary sources of vitamin B12 include meat, eggs, fish, and dairy products, such as milk and cheese. People can also select foods fortified with vitamin B12, such as breakfast cereals and plant-based milks.
Folate foods
People can get folate by eating leafy green vegetables, broccoli, legumes, eggs, beets, citrus fruits, nuts, seeds, wheat germ, and liver.
Drink fluids
A person’s blood pressure can drop if they become dehydrated. It is essential to maintain adequate fluid levels by drinking water and other drinks. Older people can become dehydrated more quickly, and caregivers may need to remind them to drink regularly.
Foods and drinks containing caffeine
Foods and beverages containing caffeine may cause a rise in blood pressure. However, studies into the effects of caffeine on blood pressure are inconclusive. Research suggests that coffee temporarily raises blood pressure only in people who do not drink it regularly.
Other foods and drinks that contain caffeine include chocolate, tea, cocoa, and some sodas and energy drinks.
