Low blood pressure and passing out

Q: My wife usually has low blood pressure, 109/78 and many times lower. This has been enough to cause her to pass out in the shower. Could the RESPeRATE device work for modulating her BP? Is there any research for this device regarding low blood pressure?

A: Syncope, or passing out, has many causes. Your wife needs to be evaluated by her physician immediately. Until the cause is determined, your wife would be wise to sit in a chair while showering. Clinical studies performed on the RESPeRATE have looked at lowering, not elevating, blood pressure. Blood pressure changes throughout the day and night based on activity, hormones, and other factors.