Why do I feel dizzy when I stand up?
Many people experience dizziness or light-headedness when they stand up after sitting or lying down for a while. There are different causes behind this phenomenon and is most often nothing to worry about.
Why do I feel dizzy when I get up?
Generally speaking, causes of dizziness can be divided into 6 categories:
- Low blood pressure. When sitting or lying down for a while, blood accumulates away from the head in other parts of the body, such as the legs. In such cases, the body just needs a little time to regulate blood flow. This type of dizziness is nothing but a mild and temporary inconvenience.
- Cervical vertigo. The neck plays a key role in balance and coordination, so if the cervical spine is inflamed or injured it may produce a feeling of dizziness or imbalance.
- Ear pathologies. Several ear disorders such as Meniere’s disease, benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), or vestibular neuritis can cause dizziness.
- Pregnancy. Pregnant women suffer hormonal alterations that can cause a drop in blood pressure and dizziness.
- Low heart rate. In a similar way to low blood pressure, a low heart rate, common amongst fit and young people, is another cause of dizziness when standing up.
- Other. Other causes include high blood pressure, diabetes, anxiety, dehydration or certain medications.
When is dizziness serious?
As mentioned above, experiencing dizziness when standing up is usually nothing serious, just a short-lived inconvenience. However, they can sometimes be symptomatic of a serious pathology such as diabetes or Parkinson’s. If such spells occur frequently or take longer than 3 minutes to disappear, it is best to go to see a doctor.
In addition, dizziness becomes alarming and may require urgent medical care when accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Very dark (almost black) coloration of the stool
- Loss of balance or difficulty walking normally
- Fainting or passing out
- Chest pain