Isolated diastolic hypotension reading

Blood pressure 111/38 mmHg: what does it mean?

A blood pressure of 111/38 mmHg indicates isolated diastolic hypotension when the diastolic pressure is below 60 mmHg while the systolic pressure remains at or above 100 mmHg. Read more ↓ Show less ↑

This pattern can occur with age-related arterial stiffening, dehydration, medication effects and other conditions. It may be asymptomatic or cause dizziness, fatigue, blurred vision or fainting.

A single reading does not confirm isolated diastolic hypotension. Repeat measurements with correct technique and discuss persistent low diastolic readings or symptoms with a health care professional.

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What does low diastolic pressure at 111/38 mmHg mean?

111/38 mmHg has a systolic (top) pressure of 111 and a diastolic (bottom) pressure of 38. The bottom number is low. This result needs a different interpretation from an ordinary normal reading, even though the top number is above 90. A single measurement does not establish a diagnosis or explain the cause.

This page uses the term isolated diastolic hypotension for the numeric pattern of diastolic pressure below 60 with systolic pressure at least 100. The 2011 Guichard study used this definition in adults aged 65 and older. Its findings do not establish a diagnosis or predict an individual outcome from this one reading.

Which symptoms matter?

Dizziness, fainting, blurred vision or unusual weakness may accompany low pressure. Some people have no symptoms. Symptoms alone do not identify the cause, and feeling well does not verify that the monitor reading is accurate.

Call your local emergency number if there are signs of shock, such as cold, clammy skin, rapid breathing or a weak, rapid pulse. Severe chest pain, trouble breathing or loss of consciousness also require urgent medical help. Do not delay care to keep taking measurements.

What could explain 111/38 mmHg?

Low readings can occur with dehydration, blood loss, some medicines or underlying heart or hormonal problems. These are possibilities for clinical assessment, not conclusions that can be drawn from these two numbers. The American Heart Association describes causes and symptoms of low pressure.

Record whether the result followed illness, a medication dose, a meal or standing up. Also note your pulse and any symptoms. Bring the record and your monitor to a healthcare appointment if the low results continue.

What do MAP and pulse pressure tell you?

Pulse pressure is the difference between the top and bottom numbers. A mean arterial pressure (MAP) estimate combines both numbers using a formula. Any calculated value on this page is derived from the entered reading and inherits its measurement errors.

These estimates cannot establish that blood flow is adequate, identify arterial stiffness or diagnose shock. Interpret the original measurements, symptoms and medical history with a clinician rather than using a calculated value as permission to ignore symptoms.

What should you do after a 111/38 reading?

If you feel faint, sit down safely and seek help if symptoms persist or worsen. Repeat the measurement when it is safe to do so. A clinician can decide whether the repeated low bottom number needs further assessment.

Use a validated upper-arm monitor with a cuff that fits. Rest quietly for five minutes, then measure with your arm supported at heart level and the cuff on bare skin. Avoid smoking, caffeine and exercise for 30 minutes beforehand. Take two readings one minute apart and record both, following the American Heart Association home measurement instructions.

Does this pattern predict a health problem?

A repeated low diastolic value deserves clinical context, particularly in someone who already has cardiovascular disease or takes blood pressure medicines. Research associations in older adults cannot tell you the cause, urgency or long-term risk of this isolated result.

If the numbers repeatedly look unusual, have a healthcare professional check your technique, cuff and monitor. Use our blood pressure measurement guide to prepare for that discussion.

How is low diastolic pressure managed?

Management depends on the cause and symptoms. A clinician may review medicines, hydration, illness and other health conditions before deciding whether treatment is needed. Do not stop prescribed medicine or change its dose because of this page.

There is no universal salt, fluid or medication prescription for a reading of 111/38. Extra salt or fluid may be inappropriate for people with heart or kidney conditions. Ask for advice suited to your medical history. If pregnant, discuss unexpected low readings or symptoms with your maternity care team.

For an overview, read our guide to low blood pressure and NHLBI guidance on symptoms, assessment and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Isolated Diastolic Hypotension

Does 111/38 mmHg indicate isolated diastolic hypotension?

A reading such as 111/38 mmHg can fit the isolated diastolic hypotension pattern when the diastolic pressure is below 60 mmHg while systolic pressure remains at or above 100 mmHg. A diagnosis should be based on repeated accurate measurements and clinical evaluation.

Is isolated diastolic hypotension dangerous if systolic pressure is normal?

Low diastolic pressure can matter even when systolic pressure is not low, particularly when readings are persistent, symptoms are present or cardiovascular disease exists. Clinical context is important.

What causes isolated diastolic hypotension?

Possible causes include age-related arterial stiffening, antihypertensive medication effects, dehydration, heart conditions, endocrine disorders, rapid weight loss and autonomic nervous system dysfunction.

Can exercise make isolated diastolic hypotension worse?

Moderate exercise can support cardiovascular health, but dehydration or overexertion may temporarily worsen symptoms in some people. Exercise intensity should be adjusted to symptoms and medical guidance.

Should I increase salt intake for low diastolic pressure?

Salt intake should not be increased automatically. It may help in selected cases, but it can be inappropriate for people with heart, kidney or systolic blood pressure problems. Any change should be discussed with a clinician.

Can isolated diastolic hypotension be reversed?

Some causes, such as dehydration or medication-related low diastolic pressure, may improve when the underlying issue is corrected. Age-related arterial stiffening may require longer-term management and monitoring.
Medical information notice

This page is educational and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a health care professional. Persistent low diastolic readings or symptoms should be reviewed with a clinician.