Khaberni - Many feel dizzy when suddenly rising from bed or a chair, as if the ground is collapsing under their feet, and vision becomes blurry.
This may sometimes be accompanied by ringing in the ears or general weakness. Usually, this feeling disappears within a few seconds, but its recurrence may indicate problems with blood pressure or blood vessels.
Why does dizziness occur when getting up suddenly?
When rising from lying down or sitting, gravity temporarily pulls blood to the lower part of the body, in the leg and abdominal veins. To prevent oxygen deficiency in the brain, the blood vessels and heart must respond immediately: the vessels constrict and the heartbeat speeds up slightly to push the blood upwards.
This process is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which is part of the neural network that operates automatically without conscious intervention. When its response is slow, the brain receives less oxygen for a fraction of a second, leading to dizziness, blurred vision, or weakness.
The main cause is orthostatic hypotension, which is a temporary drop in blood pressure when changing the body's position. In healthy individuals, the pressure quickly returns to normal, but sometimes this mechanism fails in the following situations:
After lying down or sleeping for long periods, when the blood vessels are relaxed.
With dehydration or blood loss.
When taking diuretics, sedatives, or blood pressure lowering medications.
Due to fatigue, poor diet, or low iron levels.
This type of dizziness is not related to problems in the inner ear or motor coordination but occurs due to a temporary lack of blood flow to the brain. The feeling of dizziness varies from person to person depending on how quickly the blood pressure system responds.
In some cases, dizziness is associated with a disorder in autonomic regulation or a low level of hemoglobin, which prevents the brain from receiving enough oxygen even with normal blood pressure.
When is dizziness dangerous?
Mild dizziness when standing up suddenly is normal, but you should consult a doctor if:
The dizziness is recurrent.
Accompanied by fainting or falling.
Occurs with ear ringing, nausea, or a strong feeling of dizziness.
There is a sudden acceleration or sharp decrease in pulse.
These symptoms may indicate anemia, arrhythmia, adrenal gland diseases, or neurological issues.
Simple ways to reduce the risk of dizziness
Get up gradually: Sit on the bed and take deep breaths before standing.
Drink plenty of water: Dehydration reduces circulating blood volume.
Do not skip meals: Low sugar increases weakness.
Monitor blood pressure: If it is less than 100/60 mm Hg, consult a doctor.
Strengthen blood vessels: By walking, moderate physical activity, and contrasting showers.
