What does hypotension refer to?

Hypotension refers to abnormally low pressure of the blood. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is represented with two numbers: systolic (the pressure during heartbeats) over diastolic (the pressure between heartbeats). When these measurements fall below the normal range, which is usually around 120/80 mmHg, the condition is termed hypotension. This low blood pressure can lead to insufficient blood flow to the organs, causing symptoms such as dizziness or fainting. Understanding hypotension is vital for recognizing potential health issues in patients and providing appropriate interventions.