Dr Nnenna Okafor, Senior Registrar, Department of Family Medicine, National Hospital, Abuja, has warned that low blood pressure could lead to brain damage, loss of concentration and blurred vision.
Okafor said this in an interview with newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja.
She said that the risks associated with low blood pressure included brain damage, loss of concentration, dizziness, fainting, lost of consciousness, blurred vision and shock.
According to her, heart conditions, heavy bleeding and over dose of medication for treating high blood pressure could cause low blood pressure.
She added that pregnancy, dehydration, vomiting and severe infection could also lead to low blood pressure.
She said: “Low blood pressure is when it is below 90/60.’’
Okafor advised patients to limit intake of alcoholic beverages and take fluids liberally, advising patients to wear compression stockings.
She explained that compression stockings were specialised stockings designed to help improve blood flow in the legs and prevent blood clotting.
According to her, wearing of compression stockings to improve blood flow and intravenous medication can go a long way to help patients raise low blood pressure.
“Liberal fluid intake, healthy diets such as feeding on whole grain, fruits, vegetables, lean chicken and fish can boost low blood pressure,” she said.
Okafor also advised patients to always visit hospital for proper examination by medical personnel.
She said: “It is not advisable for low blood pressure patients to drive because of blurred vision, dizziness and loss of concentration associated with the condition.’’
