Blood Pressure 74/42

A blood pressure reading of 74/42 indicates Severe Hypotension (Very Low Blood Pressure).

View the full blood pressure chart to learn more about blood pressure readings.

What does a blood pressure reading of 74/42 mean?

Readings below 80/60 indicate very low blood pressure or Severe Hypotension. You may have very low blood pressure but feel fine. It depends on the person.

However, very low blood pressure could also have an underlying cause and indicate a serious heart problem or infection. In some instances severe hypotension can result in shock, causing confusion, clammy skin and rapid shallow breathing.

Very low blood pressure can also be caused by an endocrine problem, pregnancy and dehydration. Certain medications and nutritional deficiencies can also reduce your blood pressure.

What to do if your blood pressure reading is 74/42

The first thing to do is to check your pulse. If your pulse is over 90 your heart may be compensating for the low blood pressure. Call the doctor for advice if you’re pulse is high and your experiencing any unusual symptoms.

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If your pulse is normal and you’re not experiencing any symptoms it’s still wise to undergo some testing to determine the underlying cause of your low blood pressure.

Medications with Blood Pressure of 74/42

You may get low blood pressure as a side effect of certain medications. Already on blood pressure medication? If so it may be working too well and should be adjusted.

Talk to your doctor about adjusting your blood pressure medication dosage.

If lifestyle changes don’t work to raise your blood pressure your doctor might prescribe medicines such as Fludrocortisone, which promotes sodium retention, or Midodrine, which activates receptors in arteries to promote blood pressure.

Lifestyle Changes with Blood Pressure of 74/42

Your doctor may suggest a few lifestyle modifications for those with a blood pressure of 74/42. This will depend on the severity of your low blood pressure in combination with your other health history.

• Increase Salt Intake
  Most of the time doctors want you to limit sodium since it can increase your blood pressure. In this instance, that’s just what the doctor ordered!
• Drink More Water
  Fluids increase blood volume, which can help increase your blood pressure.
• Wear Compression Stockings
  In more extreme cases your doctor may want you to wear compression stockings that will limit the blood flow to your legs and keep more blood in your upper body.

Remember that what is low blood pressure for one person could be normal for another. Don’t get so hung up on the number and instead listen to your body.