Why do I feel dizzy when standing up from a squatting position?
Jan 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
In general, dizziness upon standing up from a squatting position may be caused by rapid postural changes, physical weakness and lack of exercise, low blood sugar, anemia, cervical spondylosis, or other similar reasons. Symptomatic treatments such as general therapy and medication may be needed. It is recommended to engage in appropriate physical activities in daily life, such as walking or yoga, which are relatively mild exercises that can help enhance cardiovascular function.
Generally, dizziness upon standing up from a squatting position may be caused by rapid postural changes, physical weakness and lack of exercise, hypoglycemia, anemia, cervical spondylosis, and other factors. Symptomatic management through general treatment or medication may be needed. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Rapid Postural Changes
After squatting for a prolonged period, blood may pool in the lower limbs. Suddenly standing up too quickly causes a rapid shift of blood to the lower limbs due to rapid postural change, temporarily reducing blood flow to the head and causing dizziness. This typically manifests only as dizziness and may be accompanied by brief visual darkening. It is recommended to stand up slowly, allowing the body sufficient time to adjust to the postural change to avoid dizziness.
2. Physical Weakness and Lack of Exercise
People who are physically weak or have long-term lack of exercise may have less efficient circulation, making them more prone to dizziness when rising from a squatting position. In addition to dizziness, symptoms may include fatigue and low energy. It is recommended to increase physical exercise to improve physical fitness and enhance blood circulation.
3. Hypoglycemia
Extended periods without food intake or excessive insulin may lead to low blood glucose levels, depriving brain cells of sufficient glucose as an energy source and causing dizziness, which may be accompanied by sweating, trembling, and hunger. It is recommended to use medications such as glucose and sodium chloride injection, hydrocortisone tablets, or mannitol injection as directed by a physician to relieve symptoms.
4. Anemia
Anemia caused by iron deficiency or other factors can reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood. In anemic conditions, a decrease in red blood cell count or hemoglobin levels leads to reduced oxygen supply to the brain, causing dizziness, which may be accompanied by fatigue, pallor, and palpitations. It is recommended to use medications such as compound ferrous sulfate granules, iron dextran tablets, or iron sucrose injection under medical supervision for treatment.
5. Cervical Spondylosis
Long-term strain or degeneration of the cervical spine may lead to cervical spondylosis. In cervical spondylosis, herniated cervical discs or bone spurs may compress cervical nerve roots and blood vessels, especially the vertebral artery, affecting blood supply to the brain and causing dizziness, which may be accompanied by neck pain and arm numbness. It is recommended to use medications such as aceclofenac tablets, Jingfukang granules, or mecobalamin tablets as directed by a physician to relieve symptoms.
It is recommended to engage in appropriate physical exercise regularly, such as walking or yoga, which are relatively gentle forms of activity that can help strengthen cardiovascular function.
