What does hypotension refer to?

Hypotension refers to low blood pressure. Blood pressure is measured as the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels. When blood pressure is significantly lower than what is considered normal, it can lead to inadequate blood flow to organs and tissues. This condition might cause symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or shock, depending on the severity.

Understanding blood pressure ranges is essential in a healthcare context since normal blood pressure typically falls within the range of 90/60 mmHg to 120/80 mmHg. Anything below this range is classified as hypotension. This is why identifying and managing hypotension is crucial for patient care, highlighting the importance of this term in medical training.