Dizziness and vision problems when standing up

Dear Ask The Doctor: About 90% of the time when I go from sitting down to standing up, I feel dizzy and my vision has a tunnel vision effect. My arms and upper body also experience a numbness. This effect lasts for about 5-10 seconds. What could be the cause of this?

Dear Jaclyn: Dizziness when standing up may happen for a simple reason like standing up suddenly or rarely for a more serious disease. Reasons for dizziness in your case may include anemia, dehydration or stress and tension. You should try to avoid sudden changes in position. Healthy iron rich diet and increased intake of water may help reduce your symptoms. Daily walks and exercise may help reduce stress and improve health.