Question: I’ve always had borderline high blood pressure, usually in the 130s over 90s. I’m a man in my 60s and I’m not on any medications. Recently, my readings suddenly dropped, seemingly for no reason, down to the 110s over 70. I don’t know if this is good or bad. I lost about 5 pounds recently by dieting. Could that cause such a big drop?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing high blood pressure. In fact, your blood pressure rises as your body weight increases. Losing even 5 pounds can lower your blood pressure — and losing weight has the biggest effect on those who are overweight and already have hypertension. Low blood pressure is defined as less than 90/60mmHg with no symptoms. But sometimes, in the elderly, low blood pressure can be a sign of an underlying where it may cause inadequate blood flow to the heart, brain, and other vital organ. Symptoms of low blood pressure may include dizziness, and may occur especially when standing up from a sitting or lying down position. Sudden drops in blood pressure can be life-threatening. It might be an advisable to have a discussion with your doctor if there is any cause for a drop in your blood pressure other than just your weight loss.