I did some research to learn about my sudden drop in blood pressure, worried it may happen again. This is the most likely reason, based on my knowledge of myself and what I need to do to stay well.
I asked Google: Can dehydration cause BP to drop.
And Google answered:
- Yes, dehydration can cause your blood pressure to drop:
- Impaired blood vessel function
- Dehydration can make it harder for blood vessels to constrict and dilate, which can also lower blood pressure.
I know that I felt better almost immediately once I was hydrated in the ER.
I also know the importance of hydration for me with my Type 1 diabetes and, when I'm home, I drink tons of water everyday.
Wednesday was the third day I had a medical appointment in town and, because of this, I didn't drink water as I should have done during those three days.
A big glass of water would probably have been enough to make me and my BP feel better.
I'm really embarassed about all the fuss, ambulance trip, and the ER visit that ensued.
But I won't dwell on it, things happen...
I think you are correct and the NP should have asked you about your water and tried the glass of water and watched you. Glad you figured it out, Bob did the same thing, not enough water and got dizzy. its hard to drink enough when you are out and about... I measure mine when I am home, keep the amount I should drink in a bottle on the sink and make sure I drink all of it before bedtime. but is I go out I don't drink enough
ReplyDeleteGood idea to measure the water, I will do the same now that know I must take the water more seriously.
DeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteYes, and I am very surprised that positional hypotension was not the first thought of the "professionals" around you at the time. I suspected it immediately from your description. Glad you are feeling better. YAM xx
It was good to play it safe.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're feeling better - no need for embarrassment! Now you've reinforced for yourself the importance of staying well hydrated. It's easy enough at home, or easier, anyway, but more difficult when you're out and about. No wonder so many people carry water bottles with them.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds as if the NP wasn't very experienced. I wondered immediately about two things: hydration and potassium. Hydration is addressed with a quick glass of water. Anyway, now you know, so you can avoid it.
ReplyDeleteThank God you can go to a hospital and it all worked out. I mean, a quick drive and a bit of fuss, but here you are no worse for the wear.
ReplyDeleteBoud, above, mentioned potassium. You need to eat some pistachios! 😁
DeleteI think that was great it all worked out - you got checked out - and now you know to drink more water. Carry a bottle with you always.
ReplyDeleteI will carry a bottle always. I always do in the summer, but not as careful in the winter.
DeleteNo need to embarrassed, this is really great news!!! I'm so glad this is all it was, and now you know what you need to do.
ReplyDeleteWell, you learned something and it's better to be safe than sorry.
ReplyDeleteAnd you learned from it. I always drink less before an appointment in case there isn't a toilet nearby, but after it's over I drink a couple of glasses the minute I get home.
ReplyDelete