Does postural hypotension cause dizziness?

Standing causes blood to shift toward the legs. Normally, blood vessels tighten and the heart adjusts quickly. With postural hypotension, that response may be too slow or insufficient, briefly reducing blood flow to the brain. The result can be lightheadedness, blurred vision, weakness, or a feeling that you may faint. Dehydration, illness, some medicines, and nervous-system or heart problems can contribute.

Change position gradually: sit on the edge of the bed before standing, move your feet, and hold a stable surface. If dizziness starts, sit or lie down straight away and raise your legs if comfortable. Drink fluids unless a clinician has restricted them. Review medicines with a clinician rather than stopping them yourself, and take care on hot days or after illness.

Seek emergency care after fainting with an injury, chest pain, severe breathlessness, a new irregular heartbeat, confusion, one-sided weakness, trouble speaking, or a severe sudden headache. Arrange prompt assessment for repeated episodes, falls, black stools, heavy bleeding, or dizziness that persists while sitting or lying down. These patterns may need a cause beyond a simple posture-related blood-pressure drop.

Ask whether your blood pressure should be checked lying and standing, whether any medicine could contribute, how much fluid is appropriate for you, and how to prevent falls.