What's the reason for feeling dizzy as if spinning when lying down?

Generally, dizziness experienced while lying down or a sensation of spinning may be caused by conditions such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), cervical spondylosis, or hypertension. If patients experience these symptoms for an extended period, they are advised to seek medical attention promptly and follow medical advice for treatment, which may include medication or lifestyle modifications.

1. Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV): When the body lies down, changes in position can cause otoliths (ear stones) to dislodge and stimulate the membranes in the semicircular canals of the inner ear, leading to sensations of vertigo or severe dizziness, sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting. This condition is known as BPPV. Symptoms typically resolve quickly once body position is changed and usually do not result in long-term complications.

2. Cervical Spondylosis: Patients with cervical spondylosis may experience changes in posture while lying down, causing herniated cervical discs to compress local blood vessels, resulting in reduced blood flow to the neck and brain. This can lead to dizziness and vertigo, often accompanied by headaches, neck pain, and shoulder discomfort. In such cases, bed rest and gentle head and shoulder massage are recommended to improve cerebral circulation. If symptoms persist or worsen, surgical intervention may be necessary.

3. Hypertension: Individuals with pre-existing hypertension may experience slowed blood flow while lying down, leading to insufficient cerebral perfusion and resulting in sensations of dizziness or spinning. In such situations, it is important to remain still, lie flat, and stay relaxed. In severe cases, oral antihypertensive medications—such as nifedipine sustained-release tablets or amlodipine besylate tablets—should be taken as prescribed to control blood pressure and alleviate symptoms.