The incident involving Spandana Vijay, aged 44 and the wife of Kannada actor-director Vijay Raghavendra, has brought attention to the potential association between low blood pressure and an elevated risk of heart attacks. While enjoying a holiday with her cousins in Bangkok, Spandana experienced a heart attack as reported by her family. The heart attack was allegedly triggered by a significant drop in her blood pressure. This situation underscores the importance of comprehending the correlation between low blood pressure and the potential vulnerability to heart attacks.
In the context of discussions about blood pressure in India, the focus often leans towards hypertension or high blood pressure, overshadowing the importance of hypotension or low blood pressure. However, Dr. Salil Shirodkar, a senior cardiology consultant at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital in Mumbai, emphasizes the undeniable connection between chronic low blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular issues.
Dr. Shirodkar highlights that consistently measuring blood pressure below the normal range can lead to diminished oxygen supply to both the heart and vital organs. This sustained reduction in oxygen supply over prolonged periods can potentially compromise the health of cardiac muscles and elevate the susceptibility to heart attacks, as he explained to indianexpress.com.
Contrary to this view, Dr. Subhendu Mohanty, an interventional cardiologist at Sharda Hospital in Noida, suggests that Spandana's family might have "misinterpreted the cause given by doctors." Dr. Mohanty posits that it's more likely Spandana experienced a heart attack which then caused a severe drop in blood pressure, ultimately leading to her demise. Dr. Mohanty further notes that while low blood pressure is common and typically doesn't lead to significant issues, sudden development of low blood pressure in individuals with normal or high blood pressure can be critical. The underlying cause of the low blood pressure, such as heart problems, infections, endocrine disorders, or severe blood loss, plays a pivotal role in these situations.
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Dr. Pradeep Haranahalli, a cardiologist specializing in interventional cardiology at Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru, adds that various factors can induce low blood pressure. For instance, he mentions that consecutive episodes of diarrhea can trigger a drop in blood pressure, and systemic infections like pneumonia can also lead to lower blood pressure levels. Unlike high blood pressure, which often relates to cardiac issues, Dr. Haranahalli explains that low blood pressure is typically a manifestation of an underlying cause and is not directly associated with heart problems.
The question of whether genetic factors contribute to heart attacks among young women is explored. Dr. Haranahalli acknowledges the possibility, particularly in the case of women. He mentions that while not the most common scenario, it's feasible, and factors like family history of heart problems, elevated cholesterol levels, and existing diabetes can heighten the risk, even among young women. The example of Spandana's situation serves to underline the plausibility of such instances where individuals experience severe heart-related events, possibly even during sleep. Dr. Haranahalli underscores that it's not solely the result of one's current lifestyle; instead, a comprehensive assessment considering elements like family history, stress levels, cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure guides decisions on further evaluation.
Furthermore, he advises that staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet with sufficient salt and minerals, and regularly monitoring blood pressure are important for managing low blood pressure. For individuals over 35 years of age, annual cardiovascular assessments are recommended to ensure early detection and management of potential issues.
key Considerations
To effectively manage low blood pressure, it's essential to take several factors into account. Dr. Shirodkar advises focusing on the following aspects:
Hydration: Ensuring adequate hydration is crucial. Maintain a well-hydrated state to support proper blood circulation and overall bodily functions.
Balanced Diet: Opt for a well-rounded diet that provides sufficient salt and essential minerals. These elements play a pivotal role in maintaining blood pressure within a healthy range.
Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regularly monitor your blood pressure levels to stay informed about any fluctuations. This proactive approach helps in timely intervention if needed.
Moreover, Dr. Shirodkar recommends that individuals aged 35 and above consider undergoing a yearly cardiovascular assessment. This assessment assists in tracking cardiovascular health and identifying potential issues early on. By staying attentive to these factors, you can effectively manage low blood pressure and promote overall well-being.
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