Orthostatic Hypotension: Causes, Risks, and What You Can Do

When you stand up too fast and feel like the room is spinning, that’s often orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure upon standing that causes dizziness or fainting. Also known as postural hypotension, it’s not just an annoyance—it’s a signal your body’s blood pressure control isn’t working right.

This isn’t just about getting up too quickly. medication side effects, especially from blood pressure drugs, diuretics, or antidepressants, are a top cause. low blood pressure, when it drops too far too fast when standing, means your brain doesn’t get enough blood for a few seconds. That’s why you feel lightheaded, blurry, or even pass out. Older adults are more at risk, but it’s not rare in younger people taking certain meds or with dehydration, diabetes, or nerve damage.

It’s not just about standing up. Things like hot showers, big meals, or being dehydrated can make it worse. If you’re on SGLT2 inhibitors, like dapagliflozin, which help with diabetes and heart health but can lower blood pressure, you might notice this more. Same goes if you’re taking muscle relaxants, like tizanidine, or certain antidepressants—they can relax blood vessels too much and make the drop worse.

What helps? Simple stuff: stand up slowly, drink more water, avoid standing still for long, and wear compression socks. If you’re on meds that might be causing this, talk to your doctor before changing anything. You don’t have to live with dizzy spells. Small changes can make a big difference in staying steady and safe.

Below, you’ll find real guides on how medications, supplements, and health conditions interact—some of which directly affect your blood pressure and how you feel when you stand up. Whether it’s how calcium blocks absorption of other drugs, how diabetes meds impact circulation, or how muscle relaxants can tip the balance, these posts give you the clear, practical info you need to take control.

Midodrine and Multiple Sclerosis: Can It Help with Low Blood Pressure?

Midodrine and Multiple Sclerosis: Can It Help with Low Blood Pressure?

  • Nov, 1 2025
  • 16

Midodrine helps manage orthostatic hypotension in multiple sclerosis patients by raising blood pressure when standing. It improves mobility and reduces fainting, but requires careful dosing to avoid nighttime high blood pressure.