Patient/caregiver was educated upon life-style measures in individuals with history of hypotension as follows:
- Optimum intake of sodium in the diet is essential for fluid retention in the circulation and maintenance of blood pressure. Low salt intake can lead to poor fluid volume in circulation and consequently, result in hypotension. Observe compliance with intake of sodium as recommended by your physician.
- Individuals with history of excessive alcohol consumption can present with increased frequency of urination, contributing to fluid loss and volume deficit. This can lower the blood pressure, resulting in hypotension. Observe compliance with recommendation for moderation or abstinence on alcohol intake.
- Individuals with history of varicose veins can have difficulty draining the blood in the deep veins. As a result, increased volumes of blood get accumulated in the veins, become stagnant, and does not return to the circulation. Poor volume in circulation can lower the blood pressure, resulting in hypotension. Poorly managed varicose veins patients must rest in the bed with the BLE elevated above heart level on a pillow. Gravity acting in this position can help better drainage of the deep veins into circulation. Also, observing compliance with wearing compression stockings can help reduce pooling of blood in BLE. Return of blood volume into circulation can help prevent hypotension.
- Hypotension and reduced blood and oxygen supply to heart muscle can result in chest pain and discomfort. In severe cases, individuals can even present with an episode of myocardial infarction or heart attack, damaging the heart muscle further. Keep a close watch and report to your physician regarding any chest pain and/or discomfort, how insignificant it may be.
