Why Am I Dizzy When I Get Up?

December 29, 2023

If you’ve ever experienced a sudden bout of dizziness when standing up– you’re not alone. It’s a common sensation that can cause anyone to worry. While it might seem alarming, there are several reasons why feeling dizzy when getting up can occur. Understanding them can help ease concerns and take appropriate action. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common reasons for dizziness upon rising and explain when it might be necessary to seek professional medical attention.

For same-day care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. Our board-certified medical providers can assess your symptoms, determine the underlying cause, and plan any necessary treatment. Simply walk-in or pre-register your visit below!


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Common Reasons For Morning Dizziness

Orthostatic Hypotension

One of the primary causes of feeling dizzy upon standing is a condition called orthostatic hypotension. This occurs when there is a sudden drop in blood pressure when transitioning from a sitting or lying down position to standing. Normally, our bodies adjust swiftly to this change by constricting blood vessels and increasing heart rate. However, for some individuals, this adjustment process isn’t as efficient, leading to a temporary reduction in blood flow to the brain and resulting in dizziness.

Dehydration and Low Blood Sugar

Dehydration can play a significant role in feeling dizzy upon standing. When you are dehydrated, your blood volume decreases, making it harder for your body to maintain blood pressure. Similarly, low blood sugar levels, especially in individuals with diabetes, can cause dizziness when standing up. Blood sugar is essential for providing energy to the body, including the brain, and a sudden drop can lead to dizziness and lightheadedness.

Medication Side Effects

Certain medications can have side effects that contribute to feeling dizzy when changing positions. Blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and even some pain relievers can cause a drop in blood pressure or affect blood sugar levels– triggering a dizzy sensation when standing up.

Tips To Relieve Lightheadedness

So, what can you do to relieve that dizzy feeling when standing up? If you frequently experience dizziness when getting up, especially if it’s accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. However, for occasional occurrences, here are a few simple steps that may help:

  • Check medications
  • Hydrate throughout the day
  • Rise or change positions slowly
  • Change your eating habits
  • Monitor blood sugar levels
  • Prioritize physical activity

When to Seek Medical Attention

While occasional dizziness when standing might not be cause for immediate concern, certain signs should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider. This includes frequent or severe episodes of dizziness, dizziness accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations, and episodes of near-fainting or fainting. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. Dizziness upon standing is often a temporary and manageable issue, often caused by orthostatic hypotension, dehydration, or medication side effects. Making lifestyle adjustments can often alleviate these symptoms. However, if the dizziness persists or is accompanied by concerning symptoms, seek prompt medical advice to understand which underlying condition may be at play.

Get Same-Day Care at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer

Are you or someone you know experiencing dizziness upon standing? Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. Our experienced physicians can evaluate your symptoms, diagnose your condition, and plan any necessary treatment. We provide urgent care on a walk-in basis seven days a week– meaning no appointment is required to see a healthcare provider. We accept most health insurance plans and offer cost-effective options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 733-4000.

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