Hypotension, also known as low blood pressure, is a condition where the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is abnormally low. It is generally defined as a blood pressure reading lower than 90/60 mm Hg

. Blood pressure is measured by two numbers: the systolic pressure (top number), which is the pressure when the heart beats, and the diastolic pressure (bottom number), which is the pressure when the heart rests between beats

. While low blood pressure may not cause symptoms in many people, it can lead to dizziness, fainting, confusion, weakness, headache, blurred vision, and in severe cases, shock-a life-threatening condition due to inadequate blood flow to vital organs like the brain and heart

. Hypotension can be caused by dehydration, certain medications, heart problems, endocrine disorders, blood loss, or other medical conditions

. There are different types of hypotension, including:

• Orthostatic (postural) hypotension: a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, common in older adults

• Postprandial hypotension: a drop in blood pressure after eating, mainly affecting older adults

• Neurally mediated hypotension: often affects young adults and children after standing for long periods

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of hypotension. Mild cases without symptoms often require no treatment, but severe hypotension may need interventions such as intravenous fluids or medications to raise blood pressure

. In summary, hypotension is low blood pressure below 90/60 mm Hg that can be harmless or cause symptoms requiring medical attention depending on its severity and underlying cause