Quick Answer
Dizziness when standing up often reflects orthostatic hypotension — a drop in blood pressure on standing. It can be caused by dehydration, medications, or autonomic dysfunction.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • NMC 8029 • Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center
Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a drop in systolic blood pressure of at least 20 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure of at least 10 mmHg within three minutes of standing. It is one of the most common causes of dizziness when standing up, particularly in Kathmandu where warm temperatures, dehydration and altitude changes can contribute to fluid and blood-pressure instability.
Common causes include dehydration from inadequate fluid intake or excessive sweating, medications such as antihypertensives, diuretics, alpha-blockers and antidepressants, and autonomic neuropathy — damage to the nerves that regulate involuntary functions including blood pressure. Autonomic neuropathy may result from diabetes, Parkinson's disease, multiple system atrophy or simply ageing. In Nepal, undiagnosed diabetes and long-standing hypertension are frequent contributors.
Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav — consultant neurologist & headache specialist at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center provides evidence-based evaluation for dizziness.
Evaluation at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center involves lying and standing blood pressure measurements at timed intervals, review of medication and hydration habits, and targeted assessment for autonomic neuropathy when the clinical picture suggests it. The goal is to identify reversible causes — medication adjustment, hydration counselling, compression stockings — and to rule out serious underlying conditions.
Management strategies include increasing fluid and salt intake (where medically appropriate), rising slowly from lying or sitting positions, wearing abdominal compression garments, and addressing contributing medications under medical supervision. When autonomic neuropathy is confirmed, specific treatments are discussed based on the underlying cause.
Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav (NMC 8029) evaluates orthostatic hypotension and autonomic dizziness at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center, Durbar Marg, Opposite of Yak & Yeti Hotel. Bring a complete medication list and note when dizziness occurs — morning, after meals, or with position changes.
This article is educational and does not replace individual medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
Answers reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), FICN (Neurology), FCNV, FIHM • NMC 8029
Cervical sensations can coexist, but dizziness is often multifactorial and needs systematic assessment rather than assuming a single neck cause.
Yes; vertigo is the sensation of spinning. Dizziness is a broader term including lightheadedness, unsteadiness, and near-fainting. Different causes underlie each.
Supplements only help when a deficiency is present; underlying cause-directed care is needed.
If the underlying cause is corrected early (e.g., improving glucose control, treating vitamin deficiency), improvement may occur. Long-standing neuropathy is often not fully reversible.
More: All FAQs → · Ask Dr. Jitendra →
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References & Review
Reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • Last reviewed: 2026-09-04
- International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD-3).
- Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine — Neurology sections.
- American Academy of Neurology guidelines for selected conditions (where applicable).
Content is educational and aligns with standard medical references; individual evaluation may vary. External links provide context and do not imply endorsement.