Understanding Diastolic Hypotension
Diastolic hypotension, also known as low diastolic pressure, is a condition that is primarily caused by severe hypotension or stiff arteries. There are various factors that can contribute to low blood pressure, including bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart failure, and heart valve problems. Additionally, other medical conditions such as an over or underactive thyroid, adrenal insufficiency, dehydration, and hypoglycemia can also lead to hypotension. It is important to note that very stiff arteries can be a contributing factor in low diastolic pressure, which can occur as a result of diabetes, vascular disease, or as a natural consequence of aging.
Understanding the Risks of Low Diastolic Pressure in Hypertension Treatment
Managing systolic hypertension comes with its own set of challenges, one of which is the potential for low diastolic pressure. While it is crucial to control high blood pressure, excessively low diastolic pressure can lead to harmful consequences. A recent study examining troponin levels, a protein that indicates heart damage, revealed that individuals with a diastolic pressure below 60 were twice as likely to experience heart damage compared to those with a diastolic pressure ranging from 80 to 89.