Blood pressure plays a critical role in your overall health. When it’s too high or too low, your body feels the impact — sometimes subtly, sometimes urgently. Most people know high blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to serious issues like heart disease, but low blood pressure (hypotension) can also cause significant problems. Understanding both conditions, knowing their symptoms, and learning how to prevent them puts you in control of your health. Experts from Samford Hospital — one of the best multi-speciality hospitals in Ranchi — have shared the symptoms you need to look for along with their causes and prevention tips.
What Is Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. It’s measured in two numbers:
● Systolic pressure (top number): pressure during a heartbeat
● Diastolic pressure (bottom number): pressure between beats
Cardiologists from Samford Hospital, well known as one of the best cardiology hospitals in Ranchi, define normal reading as typically around 120/80 mm Hg.
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Symptoms
High blood pressure is often called the “silent killer” because it rarely shows symptoms until damage is already done. However, some people experience:
● Headaches
● Nosebleeds
● Fatigue or confusion
● Chest pain
● Irregular heartbeat
● Vision problems
If left untreated, it can lead to:
● Heart attack
● Stroke
● Kidney damage
● Vision loss
Causes of High Blood Pressure
Several factors can contribute to high blood pressure:
● A high-sodium diet
● Obesity
● Lack of physical activity
● Excessive alcohol or tobacco use
● Chronic stress
● Genetics or family history
● Certain medications or medical conditions
Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
Symptoms
Doctors from one of the best hospitals in Ranchi — Samford Hospital — explain that unlike hypertension, hypotension often causes noticeable symptoms, especially when it drops suddenly:
● Dizziness or lightheadedness
● Fainting
● Blurred vision
● Nausea
● Cold, clammy skin
● Fatigue
● Difficulty concentrating
Severe hypotension can deprive your brain and organs of oxygen, which can be dangerous if not treated quickly.
Causes of Hypotension
Low blood pressure can result from:
● Dehydration
● Blood loss or trauma
● Certain medications (e.g., diuretics, beta blockers)
● Heart problems (e.g., slow heartbeat, heart failure)
● Endocrine disorders (e.g., adrenal insufficiency)
● Severe infection (septic shock)
● Nutrient deficiencies (like vitamin B12 or folate)
How to Prevent High Blood Pressure
1. Cut back on salt
High sodium intake causes your body to retain water, raising blood pressure. Experts from the one of the best cardiology hospitals in Ranchi — Samford Hospital — recommend less than 2,300 mg of sodium a day (1 teaspoon) — or ideally, closer to 1,500 mg (half teaspoon).
2. Move your body
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. Walking, cycling, swimming — it all counts.
3. Manage stress
Chronic stress spikes your blood pressure. Try deep breathing, meditation, or simply taking regular breaks during your day.
4. Maintain a healthy weight
Extra weight puts strain on your heart and blood vessels. Even a small reduction in weight can make a big difference.
5. Limit alcohol and quit smoking
Alcohol raises blood pressure when consumed excessively. Smoking damages artery walls and narrows blood vessels, compounding the problem.
6. Monitor your blood pressure regularly
Use a home monitor and keep track of your readings. Catching it early gives you more control over managing it.
How to Prevent Low Blood Pressure
1. Stay hydrated
Drink enough fluids, especially water, to prevent dips in blood volume that can lead to low pressure.
2. Avoid standing up too quickly
This helps prevent dizziness from a sudden drop in blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension). Rise slowly from a sitting or lying position.
3. Eat smaller, more frequent meals
Big meals can lead to a drop in blood pressure after eating, especially in older adults.
4. Add more salt — if advised
Unlike those with high blood pressure, people with hypotension may benefit from slightly higher salt intake. But always check with a doctor before making changes.
5. Wear compression stockings
These can help improve blood flow and prevent blood from pooling in your legs, especially if you stand a lot.
6. Avoid alcohol
Alcohol can lower blood pressure further and worsen symptoms of hypotension.
When to See a Doctor
Persistent high or low readings aren’t something to ignore. If you notice symptoms like fainting, chest pain, or blurred vision — or if your blood pressure consistently falls outside the normal range — talk to our specialists at Samford hospital, considered as one of the best multi-speciality hospitals in Ranchi. Managing your blood pressure is about more than numbers; it’s about protecting your heart, brain, and quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s high or low, abnormal blood pressure can sneak up and quietly affect your health. But with awareness, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring, you can stay ahead of it. Your heart works 24/7 — give it the support it needs by keeping your blood pressure in check.