Hypotension treatment typically includes the use of prescription medication and modification of diet. If there are other medical conditions present in the patient, hypotension treatment will involve treating the underlying cause. Hypotension may be caused by a reaction to medication, in which case treatment will involve changing medication or altering the dosage. Typically, the course of hypotension treatment will depend upon what is causing the low blood pressure.
A patient may experience a sudden or acute case of hypotension, which is a sudden drop in blood pressure due to trauma, such as blood loss and subsequent shock. In such a case, a blood transfusion may be required along with drugs to stabilize a rapidly falling blood pressure. This is generally an urgent situation that requires immediate care.
For patients who have chronic hypotension, medication may be prescribed. Along with taking drugs to treat symptoms of hypotension, a patient may need to modify his diet. Increased amounts of sodium may be encouraged to raise the blood pressure of such patients.
Those who suffer from low blood pressure, in either acute or chronic cases, may benefit from drinking more fluids to avoid dehydration. Staying hydrated by increasing fluid intake may temporarily raise blood pressure somewhat in hypotension patients. Regular exercise may also be a beneficial form of hypotension treatment. It is important for a patient with low blood pressure to discuss ways to improve the situation with a physician.
Patients who exhibit symptoms of postprandial hypotension will typically experience a drop in blood pressure after eating. This usually occurs after consuming a heavy meal. The patient may also feel wobbly or unsteady and light-headed. These symptoms may be especially prominent when consuming meals that are high in carbohydrates.
The best course of treatment for postprandial hypotension is modifying the diet. Rather than eating three large meals per day, the patient may benefit from eating four or five mini-meals throughout the day. Cutting back on sugary, starchy carbohydrates may also help. Hypotension that occurs after eating generally happens to the elderly.
Another treatment for postprandial hypotension is the use of an anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen, taken just before consuming a meal. Consuming a caffeinated beverage at breakfast, such as a cup of coffee, may help to raise blood pressure as well. If the individual suffers from heart palpitations, however, caffeine should be avoided. Before changing one's diet, it's a good idea to seek advice from a physician.
