Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) in Children

Also known as: hypotension.

What is low blood pressure?

Low blood pressure is often perceived as preferable to high blood pressure. However, there are situations where blood pressure can become dangerously low and cause symptoms. This typically occurs when the top (systolic) reading is lower than 90 mm Hg, and the bottom blood pressure (diastolic) is lower than 60 mm Hg.

What causes low blood pressure?

A number of different situations and medical conditions can cause low blood pressure. These include:

Certain medications can also cause low blood pressure.

What are the symptoms of low blood pressure?

Common symptoms of low blood pressure include:

  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Dizziness
  • Fainting

In more severe instances, hypotension can be life threatening and cause:

  • Rapid breathing
  • Heart problems
  • Shock

What are low blood pressure treatment options?

Some potential treatments for hypotension are:

  • medication for lowering blood pressure
  • changing medication regimens
  • drinking more water
  • wearing compression stockings
  • getting more salt in the patient's diet

Reviewed by: Danyal M Khan, MD

This page was last updated on: November 09, 2023 03:37 PM