Differential Diagnosis for Dizziness upon Standing
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Orthostatic hypotension: This condition is characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure when standing up, leading to dizziness or lightheadedness. It is a common cause of dizziness upon standing, especially in the elderly or those with dehydration, blood loss, or certain medications.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake or excessive fluid loss can lead to dehydration, causing dizziness when standing due to decreased blood volume and subsequent drop in blood pressure.
- Anemia: A decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin can reduce oxygen delivery to tissues, including the brain, leading to dizziness upon standing.
- Medication side effects: Certain medications, such as antihypertensives, diuretics, and sedatives, can cause dizziness when standing due to their effects on blood pressure, fluid balance, or the central nervous system.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Cardiac conditions (e.g., arrhythmias, heart failure): Although less common, cardiac issues can cause dizziness upon standing due to inadequate cardiac output or abnormal heart rhythms.
- Neurological disorders (e.g., multiple system atrophy, Parkinson's disease): Certain neurological conditions can affect blood pressure regulation, leading to orthostatic hypotension and dizziness upon standing.
- Severe blood loss or internal bleeding: Significant blood loss can cause dizziness upon standing due to decreased blood volume and subsequent drop in blood pressure.
- Rare diagnoses
- Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS): A rare condition characterized by a rapid heart rate and other symptoms that occur upon standing, including dizziness.
- Autonomic nervous system disorders (e.g., pure autonomic failure): Rare conditions that affect the autonomic nervous system, leading to abnormal blood pressure regulation and dizziness upon standing.
- Endocrine disorders (e.g., adrenal insufficiency): Certain endocrine conditions can cause dizziness upon standing due to abnormalities in blood pressure regulation or electrolyte balance.