The reason for feeling dizzy when standing up is usually due to a sudden drop in blood pressure called orthostatic hypotension or postural hypotension. When standing, gravity causes blood to pool in the legs, temporarily lowering blood pressure and reducing blood flow to the brain, which leads to dizziness or light-headedness. Normally, the nervous system quickly compensates by increasing heart rate and constricting blood vessels to restore blood flow, but when this fails or is delayed, dizziness occurs. Common causes of this condition include dehydration, medication side effects, prolonged bed rest, heart problems, endocrine disorders, and malfunction of the autonomic nervous system. It is more common in older adults but can affect younger people as well. The dizziness usually resolves quickly by sitting or lying down, but if it happens frequently or lasts longer, it may require medical assessment to rule out underlying health issues. Key points:
- Orthostatic hypotension is a drop in blood pressure upon standing.
- Blood pools in the legs reducing brain blood flow, causing dizziness.
- Causes include dehydration, medications, heart or nervous system issues.
- Symptoms usually resolve quickly but frequent episodes warrant medical advice.
