Originally Posted by
jppe
I've noticed this a lot more recently. After sitting or lying down for a while I get very lightheaded when I first stand up. My blood pressure is as good or better than ever.
This is known as "
orthostatic hypotension." It is not uncommon, and not generally dangerous as long as it resolves quickly and you don't lose consciousness. Certain medications, particularly blood pressure medications and cardiac rate control mediactions can exacerbate the problem, as can dehydration. If you have a sphygmomanometer (aka "blood pressure cuff") at home you can check orthostatic vitals signs by checking your blood pressure and heart rate while lying down, while sitting, and while standing. Allow a minute or so between position changes for your body to equilibrate. A drop of 20mmHg in blood pressure and/or increase of 20bpm heart rate can indicate enough of a problem to ask your doctor for advice.