Is There A Reason Why I Have Been Experiencing Some Dizziness Recently When I Get Up In The Morning?

Posted on Mon, 14 May 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 14 May 2018 Answered on

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 Last reviewed on

Question : I have been experiencing some dizziness recently when I get up in the morning for the last 2 weeks.

I did a chem panel recently and the doctor said it came back normal

Answered by Dr. Lekshmi Rita Venugopal (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Diagnosis: Orthostatic hypotension

Detailed Answer:

Hello,

The dizziness you are experiencing while getting up in the morning is likely to be due to orthostatic hypotension. It is a drop in blood pressure that occurs due to blood pooling in lower legs due to the effect of gravity. As we grow older, body's regulatory mechanisms to restore the pressure back up becomes slower. This will be especially predominant if you are on anti-hypertensive medications.
Try to lie down in bed for few minutes after waking up. Then turn to your side and get up from bed slowly which can prevent this sudden blood pressure drop.

Another important consideration for dizziness while getting up is cervical spondylosis, which is arthritic changes in the neck vertebrae. This affects blood flow to the brain temporarily especially on quick movements like turning neck, getting up from bed etc. An Xray of the neck can help rule out the presence of cervical spondylosis. Also, make sure that you sleep on the comfortable bed with adequate neck support.

Hope this answers your question
Please let me know if you need further clarification
Regards
Dr.Lekshmi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T