Parkinson’s and Low Blood Pressure: Why Standing Up Can Make You Feel Dizzy
Parkinson’s and Low Blood Pressure: Why Standing Up Can Make You Feel Dizzy
Imagine sitting comfortably in your favourite chair.
You’ve been watching television, reading or enjoying a cup of tea.
Then you decide to stand up.
Almost immediately, something feels wrong.
You become light-headed.
Your vision may briefly become blurred or darker.
Your legs feel weak.
Perhaps you need to grab the arm of the chair or sit back down.
After a short while, the sensation passes.
It’s tempting to dismiss the experience as simply getting up too quickly.
But for some people living with Parkinson’s, these episodes can be related to a drop in blood pressure when changing position.
This is known as orthostatic hypotension, sometimes called postural hypotension.
And recognising it matters because it can increase the risk of falls and affect someone’s confidence in everyday activities.
Read more “Parkinson’s and Low Blood Pressure: Why Standing Up Can Make You Feel Dizzy”