Blood pressure plays an important role in overall health, but its impact on the brain is often overlooked. Cardiologist Dr Kota Reddy recently discussed the connection between blood pressure and brain health while speaking with fitness expert Terri Alani.
According to Dr Reddy, a systolic blood pressure reading of around 100–110 mmHg may be beneficial for brain health when a person has no symptoms such as dizziness. He also suggested that, from a brain-health perspective, keeping systolic blood pressure below 120 mmHg can be beneficial.
However, this does not mean that lower blood pressure is always better. Dr Nitin K Sethi, Chairman of Neurosciences and Senior Consultant at PSRI Hospital, explains that blood pressure needs to remain within a healthy and suitable range for each individual.
Can Very Low Blood Pressure Also Be a Problem?
Maintaining healthy blood pressure over the long term can help lower the risk of stroke and damage to the brain’s small blood vessels. But if blood pressure falls excessively, it may affect the amount of blood reaching the brain and other vital organs.
Dr Sethi says extremely low blood pressure may lead to symptoms including:
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Blurred vision
- Weakness
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Confusion
- Fainting
Such symptoms can sometimes become more noticeable when someone gets up suddenly from a sitting or lying position.
There is also no single BP number that can automatically be labelled “too low” for every person. According to Dr Sethi, doctors need to consider symptoms, medical history and the individual’s overall health. Anyone experiencing consistently low readings along with symptoms should seek medical advice.
Is a Systolic BP Below 120 Ideal for Everyone?
A systolic blood pressure below 120 mmHg can be a healthy level for many adults. However, it should not be considered a universal goal for everyone.
Blood pressure targets may need to be adjusted for older adults and people living with conditions such as kidney disease, heart disease or diabetes. Individuals who have previously experienced falls may also require particular caution.
For some elderly or medically vulnerable people, lowering blood pressure too aggressively could increase the chances of dizziness and falls. In certain situations, it may also affect blood flow to important organs.
Dr Sethi therefore emphasises that the appropriate blood pressure target depends on several factors, including a person’s age, general health, medications and how well they tolerate a particular BP level.
What Happens to the Brain When Blood Pressure Is High?
The long-term effects of hypertension are a major concern for brain health. Persistently elevated blood pressure can gradually damage and stiffen the brain’s small blood vessels.
Over time, this vascular damage can raise the risk of serious conditions such as stroke, cognitive decline and vascular dementia.
Keeping blood pressure within a healthy range can reduce the strain placed on these blood vessels and may help protect brain health over the years.
Can Lifestyle Changes Help Keep Blood Pressure Under Control?
Yes. Managing blood pressure involves more than simply taking medication. Healthy daily habits can also make an important difference.
Dr Sethi recommends measures such as:
- Cutting down on excess salt
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Staying physically active
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Avoiding tobacco
Doctors may prescribe medication if blood pressure continues to remain high despite lifestyle changes. Treatment may also be considered earlier for people who have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease or conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease or heart disease.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to blood pressure and brain health, lower is not automatically better. Persistently high BP can damage blood vessels in the brain and increase the risk of stroke and cognitive problems, while excessively low BP can cause inadequate blood flow and symptoms such as dizziness or fainting.
The ideal blood pressure target should therefore be determined according to the individual’s health, age, medications and symptoms rather than based on a single number.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available in the public domain and comments from medical experts. It is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medication, diet, exercise routine or other health practices.