What does dizziness feel like with postural hypotension?

You may notice blurred or dim vision, weakness, a wavering feeling, or the need to sit down soon after rising from bed or a chair. The episode may improve when you sit or lie down because blood flow to the brain can recover. Heat, dehydration, illness, prolonged sitting, and some medicines can make symptoms more noticeable. Dizziness has many possible causes, so repeated episodes should be checked rather than self-diagnosed.

Sit or lie down immediately to reduce the chance of falling. Once steady, move from lying to sitting and then standing slowly, using a stable surface for support. Drink fluids if a clinician has said this is suitable for you, and avoid driving or ladders while symptoms are active. Do not stop prescribed blood-pressure medicine on your own; ask a clinician to review medicines, hydration, heart rate, and blood pressure lying and standing.

Seek urgent help if dizziness causes fainting, an injury, chest pain, breathlessness, a fast or irregular heartbeat, new weakness, trouble speaking, confusion, or severe headache. Get prompt advice for repeated falls, black stools, heavy bleeding, persistent vomiting, or dizziness that continues while resting.

Ask whether your medicines, fluid intake, heart rhythm, or blood pressure could be contributing and whether you should monitor readings at home. Describe the position that triggers symptoms, how quickly they begin, whether your vision changes, and whether you have ever fainted.