…..Answer: Low Blood Pressure.
The prefix hypo means low or below normal, while tension refers here to pressure within the blood vessels.
By comparison:
- Hypotension means low blood pressure
- Hypertension means high blood pressure
Some people naturally have lower blood pressure without experiencing problems. However, a sudden or significant drop can reduce blood flow to the brain and other organs.
Possible signs include:
- Dizziness
- Light-headedness
- Weakness
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Fainting
Help the person sit or lie down safely. If they become unresponsive, check their breathing and follow DRSABCD. Call 111 if symptoms are severe, prolonged, associated with injury or accompanied by chest pain, breathing difficulty or signs of shock.
Tomorrow we finish this set with cholesterol, statins and the difference between LDL and HDL.
For great health information, check out Health Navigator New Zealand, where you will find expert opinion online.
Click here to learn more and find out how you can learn first aid for FREE
Click the images below to access our learning resources.
Click here to find out how you can learn first aid for FREE
To learn more from the experts about previously covered conditions, click their logo below.
Acknowledgement
Data and information are fact-checked against various recognised sources, including the New Zealand Resuscitation Council, Health Navigator New Zealand, St John, and other recognised entities specialising in the specific subject content. It should be noted that there are variances in protocols, which are identified where necessary.