Why do we feel dizzy when we get up?
We’ve all felt dizzy when standing up at some point. It can often be quite alarming, although this feeling of faintness usually disappears within a few seconds. But do you know what causes it?
Many people experience dizziness when standing up after having been sitting or lying down for a long period of time. This feeling of weakness or disorientation is known as postural hypotension and is usually caused by the body’s adjustment to changes in blood pressure.
Those who have experienced it often feel unsteady, weak and disoriented. Generally, these symptoms disappear after a few seconds, which is why we often ignore the reason why we feel dizzy when we stand up suddenly.
However, if this happens several times a day or causes more serious symptoms such as fainting, it is important to see a doctor to determine the possible causes of the dizziness.
The reason why we feel dizzy when we get up
When we stand up suddenly, our body has to quickly adjust our blood pressure and heart rate to ensure that blood reaches all our organs. If this process takes longer than usual and our blood pressure therefore remains low, it can cause dizziness and weakness.
Furthermore, as an increasing number of studies suggest, certain medical conditions can increase the risk of dizziness or blurred vision. Particularly those affecting the heart, such as valve problems or heart failure. Other conditions that can cause dizziness include disorders of the nervous system, such as Parkinson’s disease.
In other cases, dizziness when standing up may be caused by:
- Dehydration.
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency or anaemia.
- During intense exercise.
- After prolonged exposure to the sun.
In situations of anxiety or panic.
How to prevent dizziness?
People who tend to suffer from constant dizziness should take particular care when standing up suddenly. In this regard, experts recommend a number of habits to prevent falls:
- Getting up gradually can make a big difference, especially when you’re lying down. For this reason, it is recommended that you sit up with your feet flat on the floor and remain in this position for a few seconds before standing up.
- Move your limbs before getting up. Doing simple exercises with your legs and ankles helps improve blood circulation, which helps reduce the feeling of light-headedness.
- Drink water regularly, especially if you do not drink enough during the day. A lack of fluids in the body can make dizziness worse when standing up suddenly.
- Avoid taking very hot baths, as they can lower blood pressure and make dizziness worse.
To understand why we feel dizzy when we stand up, we must pay attention to the body’s signals. It is advisable for people prone to dizziness to monitor the frequency, duration and symptoms of these episodes. If you experience fainting, blurred vision or prolonged dizziness, you should consult a specialist to assess the situation and possible causes.
