Occasional Episodes of Vision Disturbance and Dizziness When Standing
Each day, sometimes up to twice, I experience an unusual episode after rising from a seated position. After I take around nine steps, a peculiar fading of my vision occurs. I struggle to articulate exactly what it feels like, but it's as if my sight disappears completely for a few seconds—it's not really darkness, but rather an absence of anything visible, almost as if it’s obstructed. Following this fleeting blindness, a brief spell of dizziness ensues, before I gradually return to my surroundings. I’m unsure if this sensation aligns with what some people define as derealization, but during these moments, it feels as though I'm not fully present. I am a 16-year-old male, standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 85 kilograms. I rarely indulge in smoking, have no underlying health issues, and I’m currently located in Australia.
Answers (1)
7/10/2025, 12:50:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing episodes of visual disturbance and dizziness, which can be concerning. These symptoms, especially when they occur after standing, may suggest that you might be experiencing something known as orthostatic hypotension, where blood pressure drops when you stand up, leading to temporary dizziness and vision changes. It’s understandable to feel uneasy, and it's good that you're seeking information.
Explanation
After sitting or lying down, your body sometimes struggles to adjust quickly when you stand up, which can lead to a brief drop in blood flow to the brain. This may cause the sensations of "fading" vision and dizziness that you're experiencing. Though this is often a benign issue, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely, especially since it can sometimes be associated with dehydration or low blood pressure.
Next Steps
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Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Dehydration can exacerbate these symptoms.
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Stand Up Slowly: When transitioning from sitting to standing, do it gradually. Pause for a few moments before moving to help your body adjust.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a journal of when these episodes occur. Note the time, what you were doing, and any other accompanying symptoms. This information can be useful in understanding your patterns and managing your experiences.
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Diet and Nutrition: Ensure you have a balanced diet. Some people find that small, frequent meals can help maintain stable blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
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Physical Activity: Regular, gentle exercise can help improve circulation. Start with walking and gradually increase intensity as tolerated.
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Rest: Ensure you are getting adequate sleep and rest, as fatigue can worsen dizziness and visual disturbances.
If these episodes persist, worsen, or if new symptoms develop (such as severe headaches, confusion, or prolonged episodes of vision loss), consider seeking advice from a healthcare professional for a thorough assessment.
It's essential to take care of yourself and note that these sensations, although alarming, can often be addressed with lifestyle adjustments. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to share!
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