It is common for people to report feeling dizzy upon standing. Typically, there is not one simple answer to explain why that may be happening. The first thing I try to do is help my patients determine whether they are dizzy or just feeling off balance when they stand up. If they are dizzy, I ask them the following questions:

  1. Do you feel lightheaded or as though you could pass out?
  2. Do you have vertigo or a feeling of the room spinning?
  3. Do you feel like the world is moving or shifting?

It is not easy to describe dizziness, so, as therapists, we ask questions to help people figure out what they are feeling when they complain of being dizzy upon standing.

I frequently tell my patients that they are their best detectives. They can help their healthcare professionals by paying close attention to details related to their dizzy episodes and may benefit from documenting these details.

Examples of what to take into consideration include:

  • What time of day does the dizziness occur?
  • How long had you been sitting before it happened?
  • Any changes in medications, food, or drink intake?

It is also important to note how frequently the symptoms occur and how long they last.

Below is a list of common causes to help answer the question “Why do I get dizzy when I stand up?” It is possible that more than one of these causes could be the culprit, or that the cause is something that is not on this list.

  • Side effects of medications
  • Physiologic changes such as blood pressure and/or heart rate changes, blood sugar issues, or dehydration
  • Vestibular issues such as hypofunctions, BPPV, or vestibular migraines
  • Anxiety caused by a fear of falling
  • Response to pain

It is important to notify your primary healthcare provider if you are experiencing dizziness when you stand up. Some patients may benefit from physical therapy to address their dizziness while others may be able to address their symptoms with medication and/or lifestyle changes.

You don’t have to suffer from dizziness! To learn about services that may help treat your dizziness, visit https://shelteringarmsinstitute.com/conditions-and-services/vestibular-rehabilitation/.

 

Share This Post:

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
RehaBlog

More Posts

Heat vs. Ice – Which is Better for Your Pain?

Are you experiencing pain or swelling, but are unsure if you should reach for an ice pack or a heating pad to find relief? Choosing the right therapy can help relieve discomfort and promote healing. Learn when to apply cold or heat to get the best results.

Coping with Anxiety After A Stroke

It’s common for stroke survivors and their family members to feel anxious after a stroke. So much changes so suddenly. As a stroke survivor myself, I certainly experienced anxiety: in the hospital, at the rehab center, and after I returned home. Not only were my physical and mental abilities different, but my family had to adjust as well. From coping with uncertainty to rebuilding daily routines, learn how to manage post-stroke anxiety and regain a sense of control.

Physical Therapy vs. Physical Rehabilitation – What’s the Difference?

When we think of physical rehabilitation, many people aren’t aware of all the different therapies and treatments that it includes. People often associate physical therapy and physical rehabilitation as one and the same; however, physical therapy is actually under the umbrella of physical rehabilitation. So, what is the difference between the two, and what are the different types of physical rehabilitation?

Complete vs. Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury

Have you or someone you know had a medical event that resulted in a spinal cord injury? A spinal cord injury can dramatically impact movement, sensation, and daily life. Learn about the different types of injuries, how they’re classified, and how rehabilitation can support recovery.

Sore Arm from a Shot? Here’s What to Do

Arm soreness after a flu shot or vaccine is a common side effect that can make movement uncomfortable. Learn simple exercises that may help reduce the pain and speed up recovery.

Start your Journey

Learn more about Sheltering Arms Institute

Contact a specialist at Sheltering Arms Institute to learn more about how you can gain more freedom in your everyday life.