Why Does My Vision Get Blurry and I Get Dizzy When I Stand Up?

Have you ever stood up too fast and suddenly felt dizzy or had blurry vision? It is a strange sensation. But do not worry, it is quite common and usually not serious. Yet, it would help to explore why this happens and how you can manage it, especially concerning eye health.
 

Understanding Orthostatic Hypotension

When you stand up quickly, gravity pulls blood down into your legs. Your heart will work harder to push this blood back up to your brain. If it does not happen fast enough, you might feel dizzy or see stars. This is orthostatic hypotension. It is like your body is adjusting to the sudden change in position.
 

How It Affects Vision

The drop in blood pressure can reduce the blood flow to your eyes. This temporary reduction can cause blurry vision. It is similar to how a camera tries to focus in environments with insufficient lighting. Your eyes need a steady supply of blood to function properly.
 

Common Causes

Dehydration is a major cause. When your body lacks fluids, your blood volume decreases, leading to lower blood pressure. Certain medications, especially those for high blood pressure, can cause drops in blood pressure.
 

Heart problems can also affect how well your blood pumps, making you feel lightheaded when you stand.
 

Disorders like Parkinson’s can interfere with your nervous system, affecting blood pressure regulation. Long periods of bed rest can also weaken your body’s response to standing, causing dizziness.
 

Symptoms

You might experience the following:
 

• Dizziness.
• Blurry vision.
• Weakness.
• Some people even faint.

These symptoms usually last only a few seconds. If they stick around longer, it is best to consult a doctor.
 

Prevention Tips

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to avoid feeling dizzy or having blurry vision. Rise slowly from sitting or lying down to give your body time to adjust. Eating small, frequent meals instead of large ones can also help prevent blood from pooling in your digestive system.
 

Compression stockings can improve blood flow in your legs. Regular exercise strengthens your heart and improves blood circulation. This can help prevent these symptoms.
 

When to See a Doctor

Occasional dizziness and blurry vision are not usually a cause for alarm. Yet, if symptoms are frequent or severe, it is time to seek medical advice. Other red flags include:
 

• Chest pain.
• Shortness of breath.
• A history of heart disease.
• Symptoms occurring after starting a new medication.

A doctor can help determine the underlying cause and suggest appropriate treatment.
 

Eye Health and Lifestyle Adjustments

Simple changes in your daily routine can make a big difference. Elevate the head of your bed to reduce morning dizziness. Avoid alcohol as it can lower blood pressure. Monitoring your blood pressure can help identify patterns and triggers. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall health and blood pressure stability.
 

Get Regular Eye and Vision Exams

Regular eye and vision exams are crucial in understanding why your vision might get blurry, or you feel dizzy when standing up. These exams help identify underlying issues like low blood pressure or other health conditions affecting your eyes and balance.
 

By keeping up with regular eye checkups, you can catch problems early, ensuring that your vision remains clear and stable. An eye exam can provide insights and solutions to improve your overall well-being.
 

Dizziness and blurry vision when standing up can be unsettling but are often manageable with simple lifestyle changes. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare provider for advice and treatment.
 

For more on eye and vision care, visit Everglades Eye Care at our Naples, Florida, office. Call (239) 374-2075 to schedule an appointment today.

 

www.healthline.com/health/orthostatic-hypotension