​​​​Problems with your blood pressure can cause you to feel lightheaded or dizzy, which can cause a fall.

Changing positions

A drop in your blood pressure can happen when you get up from a lying or sitting position. This is called postural hypotension.

Be careful and change your position slowly. If you have been lying down, sit for a few minutes before standing. Stand up slowly and give your body time to adjust. Then slowly begin moving.

Also be careful when you bend down, such as when you are gardening. Raise your head up slowly. Make sure you have your balance before you start moving.

Blood pressure tips

• Have your blood pressure checked regularly.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you sometimes feel lightheaded or dizzy and when it happens.
• Eat 3 meals a day or eat smaller meals more often throughout the day. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Missing meals and having too much salt can make you dizzy.

• Drink 6 to 8 glasses (250 milliliters or 8 ounces per glass) of water and other fluids each day or as recommended by your healthcare provider. Not enough water can lead to dizziness.

  If you have heart failure or other serious health conditions, or you take water pills, talk to your healthcare provider about how much you should drink.

​​Learn more about risk factors for falling.