No one likes feeling dizzy, especially not first thing in the morning. If youโre
wondering why you feel dizzy when you wake up, Stellar Sleep has
six potential causes that may be triggering your symptoms.ย
What Causes Dizziness Upon Waking?
Everyone is unique, so there are many potential causes for dizziness upon waking. If
you feel dizzy when you first wake up, itโs always best to start by consulting with
a medical professional to rule out any underlying health conditions โ however, there
are plenty of reasons why you might be experiencing dizziness, some of which can be
easily remedied.ย
Letโs explore a few possible reasons why you might be dizzy when you wake up.
Dehydration
One potential reason for dizziness is dehydration โ many of us have a hard time getting
enough fluids during the day, even if we donโt realize it.ย
In addition to not drinking enough water, caffeine intake can further dehydrate the
body. If youโre a coffee lover who tends to drink a few cups of Joe during the day,
this could be a potential culprit, too.
Improper hydration makes it much more difficult for the mind and body to function
optimally. Dizziness is a common side effect of dehydration, and it might be most
apparent when you first wake up due to not drinking water throughout the night while
you were asleep.
If you wake up and your mouth feels parched in the morning, it may be a sign youโre
experiencing dehydration.ย
Blood Pressure Changes
Blood pressure can also play a role in making you feel dizzy when you wake up. For
most people, this is most noticeable in cases of low blood pressure, known medically
as hypotension.ย
The position you sleep in can also contribute to dizziness when you wake up โ if youโre a side sleeper, you may be most at risk for
morning dizziness, especially if youโre already dealing with vertigo or if
youโre taking certain medications.ย
High blood pressure (hypertension) can also cause dizziness, although this is
generally less likely. If youโre experiencing dizziness alongside headaches, a
change in consciousness, chest pain, or any other sudden symptoms, seek medical
attention, as it may be a sign of a medical emergency.
Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar, known as hypoglycemia, can also cause dizziness. Those prone to
significant swings in their blood sugar โ like diabetics (especially those who are
reliant on insulin) โ may find that dizziness is one of the first signs that
something is wrong with their body.ย
However, it isnโt just diabetes that can cause low blood sugar. Certain medications
can also contribute to hypoglycemia, especially those designed to help lower blood
sugar.ย
Fluid in the Inner Ear
Fluid in the inner ear can also lead to dizziness, especially when getting up or
changing positions. This can happen for various reasons, including Meniereโs
disease or an acute inner ear infection.
So, how does inner ear fluid lead to dizziness?
The inner ear is the balance center, sending signals to the brain that tell you where
your body exists in space. With too much fluid, the pressure builds up and can cause
dizziness and hearing loss.
Medications
Certain medications can also cause or contribute to dizziness in the morning. Asking
your general practitioner about the side effects of new or existing medications can
help identify the culprit.
Medications that are more likely to cause dizziness include:
- Antibiotics
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotics
- Anti-seizure medications
- Antivirals
- Diuretics
- Immunosuppressants
- Pain relievers (especially opioids)
Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes you to stop breathing for several seconds
throughout the night. When this occurs, the levels of oxygen in your blood and body
decline, which may make you feel dizzy. This condition may also cause headaches and
daytime sleepiness and can increase your risk of developing chronic conditions like
diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
Sleep apnea needs to be diagnosed and treated by a sleep professional โ often by
using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine after having a sleep
study performed.ย
How Can You Stop Feeling Dizzy in the Morning?
So, how can you take the information weโve discussed about potential causes of
dizziness and turn it into a solution? It starts with identifying the cause of your
dizziness so that you can address it directly.ย
For example, is your dizziness related to dehydration? Make a point of drinking more
water during the day. Just make sure you stop at least two hours before bedtime โ
otherwise, itโs likely to wake you up in the middle of the night for a bathroom
break.ย
Taking your time getting out of bed in the morning can also help. Sit up slowly, wait
a few minutes, then stand up. Changing positions gradually can help make the blood
pressure swings less dramatic, reducing the risk of dizziness or falls.ย
If you notice that your dizziness persists, speak to your general practitioner for
personalized guidance and advice.
The Bottom Line
Although there are a variety of potential causes, itโs crucial to narrow them down so
that you can address your dizziness directly. Working with a CBT-I coach can help you create a more supportive
sleep routine to improve the quality and quantity of your rest. Thereโs nothing much
better than a good nightโs sleep โ and weโd love to help you get there.ย
Take our free sleep quiz to
learn more about your sleep patterns and get started on seeking guidance.ย
Sources:
Dehydration | MedlinePlus
What Is
Mรฉniรจre’s Disease? โ Diagnosis and Treatment | PMC
The Clinical Spectrum of Dizziness in Sleep Apnea |
Otology & Neurotology
Low Blood Pressure – When Blood Pressure Is Too
Low | American Heart Association
Vertigo and Sleep: How to Get a Better Nightโs Rest
with Vertigo | Upper Cervical Seneca
