Why do I go dizzy and all I see is blackness whenever I stand up?

Hello Anonymous,

Welcome to EmpowHER and thank you for seeking our help with your concern.

How long have you been experiencing this? Are you on any medication? Does it happen often? Have you spoken to your doctor about this?

In some people, particularly older people, blood pressure drops excessively when they sit or stand up. This is a condition called orthostatic or postural hypotension. Symptoms of faintness, light-headedness, dizziness, confusion, or blurred vision occur within seconds to a few minutes of standing, particularly after lying in bed or sitting for a long time, and resolve rapidly when the person lies down.

However, some people fall, faint, or very rarely have a brief seizure. I am concerned that you say that " all that you see is blackness".

Symptoms are often more common and worse after people exercise or have consumed alcohol and/or a heavy meal.

Some younger people experience similar symptoms upon standing but without having a drop in blood pressure. Often, their heart rate increases more than normal upon standing. This condition is called postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). The reason why such people feel dizzy despite having normal blood pressure is not yet clear.

Anonymous, if you have not already done so, please consult your physician.

Regards,
Maryann