A new study has uncovered a link between Orthostatic Hypotension—that light-headed dizziness people sometimes experience when standing up too quickly—and future development of heart disease.
Orthostatic Hypotension is caused by a quick drop in blood pressure. Underlying causes include medications, dehydration, and prolonged bed rest. If you experience this type of dizziness while taking prescription medications, it’s worth talking to your doctor about. Fainting is an immediate concern of dizziness, and can lead to head trauma. Sitting down should quickly clear up the feeling of dizziness.
The researchers emphasize that people shouldn’t worry if they have the dizziness symptoms (especially only occasionally), it’s only a slight increase in risk. If anything, use concern as motivation for heart care and regular check-ups.
The risk for heart disease increases when hypertension is already present, and symptoms of Orthostatic Hypotension were a better indicator of future heart disease for people in their forties than those who were older.
Taking care of your heart should involve yearly check-ups, regular exercise (supervised by a doctor if you have other health concerns), and a healthy diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables, as well as antioxidants.
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