Hypotension

Excerpt

Hypotension is characterized by a decrease in systemic blood pressure below normal values. As this condition is often asymptomatic, it may go undiagnosed. Normal blood pressure is typically considered to be between 90/60 and 120/80 mm Hg, with values below 90/60 mm Hg classified as hypotensive (source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2022).

Hypotension may be defined using several criteria, including a systolic blood pressure (SBP) below 90 mm Hg, a mean arterial pressure (MAP) less than 65 mm Hg, or a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) under 60 mm Hg. Most patients with hypotension are asymptomatic unless the decreased pumping pressure fails to perfuse vital organs with oxygenated blood. In symptomatic individuals, the underlying cause should be identified and addressed directly. Some patients may require daily medications, such as midodrine, to help maintain adequate blood pressure. Individuals in shock may require vasopressors until the underlying etiology is resolved.