When you stand up too fast and feel like the room is spinning, that’s often orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing that reduces blood flow to the brain. Also known as postural hypotension, it’s not just a minor nuisance—it can lead to falls, injuries, and hospital visits, especially in older adults or people on multiple medications. Your body normally adjusts blood pressure instantly when you rise, but when that system fails, your brain gets a temporary shortage of oxygen. It’s not rare—about 20% of adults over 65 experience it regularly, and it’s even more common if you’re taking blood pressure meds, diuretics, or drugs for Parkinson’s, depression, or erectile dysfunction.
This isn’t just about aging. Many medications, including those for heart conditions, mental health, and pain directly interfere with your body’s ability to regulate blood pressure. For example, drugs like doxycycline or certain antidepressants can amplify the drop, especially when combined with alcohol or heat. Even something as simple as a large meal or a hot shower can trigger it. The autonomic nervous system, the part of your body that controls involuntary functions like heart rate and blood vessel tightening is often the culprit. If it’s damaged by diabetes, Parkinson’s, or even long-term medication use, your body can’t respond fast enough when you stand.
You don’t need to live with dizzy spells. Simple habits—like standing up slowly, drinking more water, wearing compression socks, or avoiding alcohol—can make a big difference. But if it’s happening often, it’s not just "getting older." It could be a sign your meds need adjusting, or that something deeper is going on. The posts below break down exactly which drugs are most likely to cause this, how to spot the warning signs before you fall, and what steps you can take right now to protect yourself. Whether you’re managing heart meds, antidepressants, or painkillers, there’s real, practical advice here to help you stay steady on your feet.
Autonomic neuropathy causes dangerous drops in blood pressure and severe digestive problems like gastroparesis. Learn why it happens, how it's diagnosed, and what actually helps people manage it every day.