Can low blood pressure cause stroke?

I am 54 years old, have low blood pressure and often feel dizzy, am I at risk of stroke, what should I pay attention to? Please advise me, doctor. (Ngoc Suong, Vinh Long )

Reply:

In case of low blood pressure, unstable blood pressure still has the risk of stroke. The risk is higher in people with atherosclerosis, which has narrowed blood vessels, obstructing blood flow to the brain. When low blood pressure occurs, there is a high risk of ischemic stroke, also known as cerebral infarction.

In the cold season, people with low blood pressure or unstable blood pressure are more likely to have a stroke than others. In cold weather, the body automatically activates its ability to limit heat loss by secreting many hormones that constrict peripheral blood vessels. At the same time, the number of red blood cells and platelets in the blood often increases, making the blood thicker and more likely to clot.

These factors aggravate atherosclerosis, which can lead to cerebral vascular occlusion. If blood pressure drops at this time, a stroke is more likely to occur.

People with low blood pressure or unstable blood pressure should be screened to prevent stroke. During screening, the doctor examines the patient's overall health, combined with necessary imaging and testing methods to find risk factors leading to stroke. Modern equipment and machinery help improve screening efficiency, detecting the smallest abnormalities throughout the body.

You can go to the hospital for stroke screening. Depending on your needs and health status such as blood pressure, heart rate, and level of atherosclerosis, the doctor will advise you on a suitable screening and examination package. From there, the doctor can suggest stroke prevention measures.

In addition, everyone should pay attention to check blood pressure regularly, maintain a scientific diet, limit fat, alcohol, and tobacco. Increase vegetables and fruits, natural nutrients such as blueberries, ginkgo biloba to help increase blood flow to the brain. Exercise and rest regularly.

Associate Professor, Dr. Nguyen Van Lieu
Director of Neurology - Stroke Center
Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi

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