Some experts define low blood pressure as readings lower than 90 mm Hg systolic or 60 mm Hg diastolic. Most doctors consider blood pressure too low only if it causes symptoms. What's considered low blood pressure for you may be normal for someone else. The bottom number in a blood pressure reading refers to the amount of pressure in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats.Ĭurrent guidelines identify normal blood pressure as lower than 120/80 mm Hg.īlood pressure varies throughout the day, depending on:īlood pressure is usually lowest at night and rises sharply on waking. The top number in a blood pressure reading is the amount of pressure your heart produces when pumping blood through your arteries to the rest of your body. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic Causesīlood pressure is a measurement of the pressure in your arteries during the active and resting phases of each heartbeat. It can be helpful to keep a record of your symptoms, when they occur and what you're doing at the time.

Still, it's important to see your doctor if you have signs or symptoms of low blood pressure because they can point to more-serious problems.

If you have consistently low blood pressure readings but feel fine, your doctor will likely just monitor you during routine exams.Įven occasional dizziness or lightheadedness may be a relatively minor problem - the result of mild dehydration from too much time in the sun or a hot tub, for example. If you have signs or symptoms of shock, seek emergency medical help. For some people, low blood pressure signals an underlying problem, especially when it drops suddenly or is accompanied by signs and symptoms such as:Įxtreme hypotension can result in this life-threatening condition.

Blood pressure chart female