Yes, Michael Jackson did experience abnormally low blood pressure at one point. During an incident in December 1995, following a collapse at a theater, Emergency Medical Service (EMS) personnel recorded his blood pressure as 70 over 40.
Understanding Michael Jackson's Blood Pressure Reading
On December 7, 1995, an EMS crew responded to a situation where Michael Jackson had collapsed. Upon their arrival, approximately four minutes after the collapse, his blood pressure was measured. The reading of 70/40 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) was explicitly noted as "abnormally low" by an EMS spokesman. This measurement is significantly below the typical range considered healthy and often indicates a condition known as hypotension.
What Does "Low Blood Pressure" Mean?
Blood pressure is measured as two numbers:
- Systolic pressure (the top number): Represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats.
- Diastolic pressure (the bottom number): Represents the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats.
A normal blood pressure reading is generally considered to be less than 120/80 mmHg. When blood pressure drops too low, it can lead to various symptoms as vital organs may not receive enough blood flow.
Blood Pressure Categories
To put Michael Jackson's reading into perspective, here's a general guide to blood pressure categories for adults, according to the American Heart Association:
| Category | Systolic (top number) mmHg | Diastolic (bottom number) mmHg |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120 | Less than 80 |
| Elevated | 120-129 | Less than 80 |
| High Blood Pressure (Hypertension Stage 1) | 130-139 | 80-89 |
| High Blood Pressure (Hypertension Stage 2) | 140 or higher | 90 or higher |
| Hypertensive Crisis | Higher than 180 | Higher than 120 |
| Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) | Below 90 | Below 60 |
Given these categories, a reading of 70/40 mmHg is clearly in the hypotensive range and is considered quite low, often warranting immediate medical attention due to potential health risks.
Symptoms and Risks of Hypotension
While an isolated low reading might not always be critical, persistently low blood pressure or a sudden drop can lead to symptoms such as:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fainting (syncope)
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Lack of concentration
Severe hypotension can restrict the oxygen and nutrient supply to the body's essential organs, potentially leading to organ damage, shock, or even life-threatening conditions. Causes of low blood pressure can range from dehydration, heart conditions, endocrine problems, severe infections, or even reactions to certain medications.
