What Causes Dizziness After Resting Neck On A Raised Pillow?

Posted on Wed, 11 Nov 2015

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

Wed, 11 Nov 2015 Answered on

Wed, 2 Dec 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I recently used a warm neck bolster/pillow under my neck to rest lying on my bed and stretch my neck a bit. After about 20 minutes, I got up and was so dizzy that I couldn't walk and had to lie back down. This dizziness lasted several hours and I still felt a bit of it for the next 36 hours. My blood pressure is and has been normal all of my life. I'm 63 years old, in good health, am active and exercise 2-3 times per week and don't take any prescription drugs.

Answered by Dr. Saddiq Ulabidin (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Can be due to stimulation of baroreceptors causing low BP

Detailed Answer:
Hi! Welcome to health care magic!

Based on the history you have shared, it can due to stimulation of baroreceptors in the neck causing low blood pressure or bradycardia.

In neck vessels, there are sensors for pressure, inside vessels to maintain sitting and standing blood pressures, or to keep fluctuations of pulse and blood pressure in check. The warm compressions around those may have caused stimulation of those leading to heart rythm abnormalities or postural drops. You need to take an EKG and assess your blood pressures. Also get electrolytes, and thyroid levels checked. Drink plenty of fluids and avoiding walking abruptly after standing up from sitting position.

Hope this has answered your query, if you have any more questions, feel free to ask. Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina