Orthostatic Hypotension in Kids: What You Need to Know
Ever felt light‑headed after getting up too fast? That dizzy feeling is a clue that your blood pressure dropped when you stood. In kids, we call it orthostatic hypotension, and it can be scary if you don’t know what’s going on. This guide shows you the basics, why it matters, and easy ways to help your child feel steady again.
What Is Orthostatic Hypotension?
Orthostatic hypotension happens when the blood pressure falls sharply after a person moves from lying down or sitting to standing. The brain gets less blood for a moment, so the child might feel dizzy, shaky, or even faint. In healthy adults, the body usually adjusts in a second or two, but kids—especially younger ones—can have a slower response.
Common triggers include dehydration, warm rooms, certain medicines, or an underlying heart or nervous‑system issue. You might notice it after a night of poor sleep, a hot day at the park, or after a long car ride when the little one finally hops out of the seat.
How To Manage It At Home
First, keep a watchful eye. If your child complains of “spinning” or feels unsteady right after standing, sit them down right away. Give them a glass of water; dehydration is a big culprit.
Second, make standing a gradual move. Encourage them to swing their legs while still sitting, then pause a few seconds before fully standing. Small steps like this give the heart time to catch up and pump enough blood.
Third, watch what they’re eating and drinking. Salt helps hold onto fluid, so a balanced snack with a pinch of salt can be useful on hot days. Avoid sugary drinks that can make them urinate more and lose fluid.
If the dizziness happens often—more than a couple of times a week—or if they actually faint, it’s time to call a pediatrician. The doctor might check blood pressure lying down and standing, run a few blood tests, or review any meds they’re on.
For kids on medication, ask the doctor if the drug could lower blood pressure. Sometimes a simple dose tweak or switching to another drug fixes the problem.
Physical activity can also help. Regular, gentle exercise strengthens the muscles that help push blood back up from the legs. Even short walks or a quick game of tag can make a difference.
Remember, alcohol and caffeine aren’t usually a concern for younger kids, but older teens might start drinking energy drinks. Those can mess with blood pressure, so keep an eye on any new beverage habit.
Finally, set up a safe environment. If your child feels faint, make sure there’s a sturdy chair or a soft floor area nearby. Avoid slippery rugs and keep the bathroom floor dry, especially after a bath when blood vessels expand.
Orthostatic hypotension isn’t usually dangerous, but it can lead to falls or injuries if left unchecked. By staying aware, hydrating, and easing the rise from sitting to standing, you can help your child stay steady and enjoy their day without the dizzy spell.
