HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Causes Lightheadedness When I Stand Up?

default
Posted on Mon, 1 Dec 2014
Question: Hi there, I often get a feeling of light headedness especially when I get up, but even sometimes when i am just walking. Also get a feeling that my brain is loose in my skull if that makes any sense. A little while ago I also felt spinning when lying down but that has now stopped. Generally not feeling that great, tired, but that could be the 3 very active children that I have!
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (38 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Probably postural ( orthostatic ) hypotension.

Detailed Answer:
Hi, I had gone through your question and understand your concerns. The cause of your concerns may be postural hypotension ( lowering of blood pressure after you stand up from sitting or laying or longstanding). If you feel just lightheadedness and weird sensation in your brain, then the case is of minor concern. Economising your energy (physical activity), good rehidration, avoiding heat exposure, may help.You need measurement of blood pressure in sitting and standing position. If you ever experience other symptoms ( fainting, loss of consciousness, confusion, nausea) then you have to consult your primary care Doctor to exclude any serious condition. Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (9 hours later)
Actually I do have low blood pressure generally. However, I have recently been feeling some nausea and I know I am not pregnant so that is not the cause. Am also finding that I will want to get something from a particular room and then when I go into the room I forget what I wanted.....it does then come back to me after a bit, but I have noticed that is happening. The other night, I was tired and looking at the computer screen and it felt like the words were gently moving up and down. That is the only time I have felt that. Am wondering if it is not because I am very active, have a busy family life and also working - do feel under a lot of pressure and not being able to get a break.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (10 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Find some time for yourself.

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for asking again. I think you need some time to relax and see how is going with your concern. Postural hypotension usually is diagnosed when there is a difference of 20 mmHg between blood pressure measured in laying and standing position. Seems to me that your symptoms are caused from a busy and fatigued day activity. If you have the possibility of observing your condition in a relaxing environment and there are no symptoms, then is fatigue, if your symptoms persist there is need for further investigation about cause of your symptoms. Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4493 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Causes Lightheadedness When I Stand Up?

Brief Answer: Probably postural ( orthostatic ) hypotension. Detailed Answer: Hi, I had gone through your question and understand your concerns. The cause of your concerns may be postural hypotension ( lowering of blood pressure after you stand up from sitting or laying or longstanding). If you feel just lightheadedness and weird sensation in your brain, then the case is of minor concern. Economising your energy (physical activity), good rehidration, avoiding heat exposure, may help.You need measurement of blood pressure in sitting and standing position. If you ever experience other symptoms ( fainting, loss of consciousness, confusion, nausea) then you have to consult your primary care Doctor to exclude any serious condition. Hope this answers your question. If you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.