Which term refers to low blood pressure?

Hypotension is the term that specifically refers to low blood pressure. It occurs when blood pressure readings are significantly below the normal range, which is generally considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. Low blood pressure can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, and in severe cases, shock due to inadequate blood flow to the organs.

Understanding the other terms can help clarify why hypotension is the correct choice. Hypertension refers to high blood pressure, which poses its own health risks, such as increased chances of heart disease and stroke. Bradycardia is a term used to describe a slower than normal heart rate, while bradypnea refers to an abnormally slow respiratory rate. Each of these terms addresses different physiological conditions, with hypotension specifically indicating a decrease in blood pressure.