The most common causes of dizziness when standing up are orthostatic hypotension, anemia, and dehydration. Orthostatic hypotension refers to a drop in blood pressure when standing up. This condition is usually temporary; however, when it becomes chronic, medications are available to increase blood pressure. In addition, anemia can commonly cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and heart palpitations when a person stands up. This is especially common in women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding and those recovering from surgery where large amounts of blood were lost.
Usually, when a person gets dizzy after standing up, they feel weak and dizzy. Sometimes this is related to an inner ear infection, which causes vertigo. This sensation causes a spinning sensation and is sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
An inner ear infection is usually treated with antibiotics if it is bacterial and anti-nausea medications and antihistamines. It should be noted that antihistamines can also cause dizziness, but the feeling of vertigo is usually relieved. Before starting treatment, individuals should discuss this treatment option with a medical professional to discuss side effects and adverse reactions.
It is important for a health care provider to determine the cause of any dizziness. Treatment will depend on the diagnosis, but if prompt treatment is not started, the patient is at risk of falling and sustaining injury. Older people are especially vulnerable to dizziness when standing up. They are also prone to low blood pressure, anemia, and balance deficits. The combination of these medical conditions along with dizziness sets the stage for a potentially dangerous situation. In these patients, it is crucial that adequate fluids are consumed throughout the day to avoid dehydration and lightheadedness.
When anemia is found to be the cause of dizziness on standing up, treatment may include eating more iron-rich foods and taking iron supplements. After iron levels normalize, dizziness and other symptoms of anemia usually improve. Iron supplements should never be taken unless directed by your health care provider, as too much iron can cause liver problems.
Iron supplementation can cause an upset stomach, constipation, and black stools. Drinking water regularly can help prevent these side effects. Typically, before iron supplementation begins, the medical professional will perform a blood test to determine serum iron levels. If the blood test determines that the iron level is normal, supplementation therapy should not be started.