The Facts

• According to Drs. Joel Braunstein and Joseph Toscano of Johns Hopkins University, you may be at risk for heart disease if blood pressure falls quickly or significantly after exercising.
  
  

Symptoms

• A quick drop in blood pressure can be accompanied by nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, fatigue, fainting or thirst. You might also experience rapid breathing or pale, clammy skin.
  
  

Prevention/Treatment

• Schedule a treadmill test with your physician if you have risk factors for heart disease, such as smoking or family history, if you routinely experience a rapid drop in blood pressure after exercising.
  
  

Considerations

• You may experience orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure after changing positions, if you move too quickly after exercising. You are more susceptible to this phenomenon as you age.
  
  

Suggestions

• If you are prone to low blood pressure, warm up before exercising and cool down when you are through. Avoid jerky or rapid movements to keep your blood pressure stable.