Hypotension: Knowing the early signs

The early signs of hypotension vary based upon the reason for hypotension. In the case of orthostatic hypotension, the symptoms include confusion, weakness, nausea, blurred vision and dizziness. Normally, these signs disappear on sitting or relaxing for a while. In the case of neurally mediated hypotension, or NMH, symptoms are similar as that of orthostatic hypotension, with the difference being that the trigger for this is an unpleasant or scary experience, or even when the sufferer stands for a long time. In the case of severe hypotension that is related to shock, there are initially barely any symptoms. In the case of older people, they might only suffer from confusion. At times the person much experience sleepiness and lightheadedness. However, as this form of hypotension progresses, even before it reaches the critical stage, it can result in loss of consciousness. Other general early symptoms of hypotension include a weak and rapid pulse, cold, sweaty skin which might look pale or even blue, bluish lines beneath the skin, quick breathing and cold flushes. In the event of any of these symptoms, medical intervention is required in order to prevent the condition from escalating to a chronic form of hypotension, which could even be fatal.