Question:
How low can blood pressure go before you are in serious trouble?

I'm 21 months post op. Pre op my blood pressure was on the high side of "Normal" to slightly high but I never needed any medication. But over the last almost two years and -160 pounds it is getting very low. (At least what I would consider very low). With it I am going through more and more times of feeling as if I will pass out when I get up from laying or sitting down. Anyway a few weeks ago it was 88/44. Then finally last week it went up around 90/60. But today it was way down again. 92/40! My God how low can it go before I'm in deep trouble! I've always heard that the bottom number is the most important. 40 is frightning. And it can't be because I'm exercising and in good shape as I've never had any energy since WLS and don't exercise. I'm taking 2-4 B-12 shots a month (and I'm anemic and have other problems related to the malnutrician and vitamins). I've asked my doctor many times if there is any meds for low blood pressure. After all this time I finally got a yes, but she does'nt want me on them now. (???) Anyway, I will be seeing my WLS surgeon in May for my two year check up. I will ask him about my many problems including the blood pressure and abdomial pains. But for now, I am very concerned about the low blood pressure. Any of you that are nurses have any idea how much lower my blood pressure can go? Seems if it goes to low you die. Just curious. Thanks.    — Danmark (posted on February 3, 2003)

February 3, 2003
I'm not a nurse, so I'm sorry i cannot tell you how low it can go, but I had very low blood pressure for a while. Mine was like 60/50. I was very worried, too, I thought I was gonna die or something. But my neurologist and PCP told me to eat a little more salt if I could and it would fix this problem. I upped my salt intake just a tiny bit, but to make sure I drink alot of water along with the salt, and now my blood pressure seems to stay steady at 90/70 or so. I also figured that if 2 of my doctors weren't freaking out about how low it was, then maybe I shouldn't either. Maybe you can try that? I hope it gets better for you, and hope you feel better. Goodluck to you!
   — Lezlie Y.

February 3, 2003
Being anemic usually will increase your blood pressure. My husband's pressure went up when he had a very low hemoglobin (heart had to work harder to pump what little blood he had). I myself have been having trouble with low blood pressure, especially after my TT and BR. My iron levels are good and I'm 18 months post open RNY. I was told to had a little salt too.
   — LLinderman