How to improve dizziness and vertigo when getting up after prolonged lying down

May 13, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Dizziness and vertigo upon standing after prolonged lying down should be treated according to the specific underlying cause. It may be related to physiological factors, in which case symptoms typically resolve with appropriate rest. It could also result from pathological conditions such as orthostatic hypotension or cervical spondylosis, which require proper medication and treatment. In addition to these factors, it might be triggered by diseases such as anemia, cerebral ischemia, or Ménière’s disease.

Dizziness and vertigo upon standing after prolonged lying down should be treated according to the specific underlying cause. The symptoms may be related to physiological factors and usually resolve with appropriate rest. However, they could also result from pathological conditions such as orthostatic hypotension or cervical spondylosis, which require proper medication. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Physiological Factors

When lying flat, gravity causes blood to pool in the lower parts of the body. Upon suddenly changing position to stand up, the brain may not receive sufficient blood supply temporarily, leading to dizziness and blurred vision. These symptoms can be improved by adequate rest and generally do not require excessive concern.

2. Pathological Factors

1) Orthostatic Hypotension

This is a relatively uncommon cardiovascular disorder. Patients who have been lying flat for a long time may experience sudden postural changes that trigger vascular relaxation and a rapid drop in blood pressure, resulting in dizziness and vertigo. Treatment may include medications such as midodrine hydrochloride tablets, hydrocortisone acetate tablets, or droxidopa capsules, taken under medical supervision.

2) Cervical Spondylosis

This condition is primarily a clinical syndrome caused by degenerative changes in the cervical spine. Prolonged lying down may lead to spinal canal narrowing and compression of the spinal cord, and positional changes can trigger rotational vertigo and other discomforts. Treatment may involve medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, acetaminophen tablets, or vitamin B1 tablets, as prescribed by a physician, to promote recovery.

In addition to the above causes, dizziness after rising may also be triggered by anemia, cerebral ischemia, Ménière’s disease, or other conditions. If symptoms occur, it is important to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital and actively follow medical advice to select appropriate treatments.