Why do I feel dizzy when lying down or getting up?
Jun 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
In general, dizziness upon lying down or standing up may be caused by rapid postural changes, lack of sleep, dehydration, hypotension, anemia, and other factors. Symptomatic management such as general treatment and medication may be needed. It is recommended to ensure sufficient sleep in daily life, as good sleep contributes to bodily stability and reduces episodes of dizziness.
Generally, dizziness upon standing up from lying down may be caused by rapid postural changes, lack of sleep, dehydration, hypotension, anemia, or other factors. Symptomatic management such as general treatment or medication may be needed. If symptoms are severe, timely medical consultation is recommended, following the doctor's instructions for treatment. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Rapid Postural Changes
When quickly transitioning from a lying to a standing position, gravity causes blood to flow to the lower limbs. If the body's blood pressure regulation mechanism cannot respond promptly, it may temporarily reduce blood supply to the brain, causing dizziness, which may be accompanied by brief visual darkening or unsteadiness. It is recommended to stand up slowly, allowing the body sufficient time to adapt to the positional change.
2. Lack of Sleep
Chronic sleep deprivation or poor sleep quality can lead to physical fatigue, potentially affecting blood pressure and circulation. Sudden postural changes from lying down may temporarily lower blood pressure, causing dizziness, which may be accompanied by fatigue and difficulty concentrating. It is recommended to ensure adequate sleep duration, improve sleep quality, and avoid using electronic devices before bedtime.
3. Dehydration
Dehydration increases blood concentration and viscosity, reducing the heart's efficiency in pumping blood. During postural changes, cerebral blood flow may temporarily decrease, causing dizziness, possibly accompanied by thirst, dark yellow urine, and fatigue. It is recommended to replenish fluids promptly and ensure adequate daily water intake.
4. Hypotension
In cases of hypotension, the heart's pumping pressure may be insufficient to maintain normal cerebral blood flow. When standing, gravity further reduces blood supply to the brain, causing dizziness or even syncope, which may be accompanied by fatigue, palpitations, and cold sweats. It is recommended to follow medical advice for the use of medications such as midodrine tablets, flunarizine hydrochloride capsules, and propranolol hydrochloride tablets.
5. Anemia
Anemia caused by iron or other nutrient deficiencies affects the oxygen-carrying capacity of red blood cells. A reduction in red blood cell count or quality weakens the ability to transport oxygen, leading to dizziness due to cerebral hypoxia. This may also present with pallor, fatigue, and palpitations. It is recommended to follow medical advice for the use of medications such as compound ferrous sulfate granules, iron dextran tablets, and intravenous iron sucrose solution to alleviate symptoms.
It is recommended to ensure adequate sleep daily, as quality sleep contributes to stable bodily functions and reduces episodes of dizziness.
