Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure After Exercise
Low blood pressure sometimes occurs after exercise -- a condition called postexercise hypotension. This condition may last for a few minutes or as long as 13 hours. Postexercise hypotension is caused by a temporary decrease in blood flow to the area of the brain that controls your blood pressure.
Symptoms
Low blood pressure causes lightheadedness, dizziness, weakness and headache. These symptoms may cause you to fall or faint. Other symptoms include confusion, difficulty thinking and neck pain. (Ref 3) Your vision may be blurred, and your skin may be pale, cold or clammy. Shallow, rapid breathing may also occur. (last ref) See your doctor if you experience these symptoms, as they can be a sign of more serious medical conditions such as stroke or heart attack.
Related Articles
References
- Journal of Physiological Anthropology: Peripheral and Central Vascular Conductance Influence on Post-Exercise Hypotension
- Exercise and Sport Sciences Reviews: Postexercise Hypotension -- Central Mechanisms
- Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine: Preventing and Treating Orthostatic Hypotension -- As Easy As A, B, C
- American Heart Association: Low Blood Pressure
Writer Bio
Located near Washington D.C., Kristen Lichtenberg has been writing health-related articles since 2007. Her publications include The Maryland Dietetic Association's "Chesapeake Lines" and "Nutrition in Clinical Practice." Lichtenberg holds a Bachelor of Science in dietetics from Michigan State University. She is now a practicing registered dietitian, certified nutrition support clinician and has a certificate of training in childhood and adolescent weight management.