Dizziness while lying down

Dizziness that occurs while lying down can have many different causes. In addition to organic disorders, such as a derailed blood pressure or a too low blood sugar level, psychological strain or a lot of stress can also be possible triggers. One of the most common causes of dizziness when lying down is benign positioning vertigo.

This is a benign, paroxysmal form of rotational vertigo that is triggered by a disorder in the vestibular organ. Small ear stones are formed which, when the head is moved, irritate the sensory cells in the inner ear and thus trigger the vertigo. The sudden attacks of rotary vertigo are often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

The attacks of rotary vertigo occur during changes of position, especially when turning in sleep or when getting up from a lying position, as well as during head movements of any kind (see: Vertigo in the morning). The dizziness usually disappears after a few weeks. However, effective treatment leads to a quicker relief of symptoms.

Through targeted positioning training carried out by the doctor, the small ear stones that are the cause of dizziness when lying down can be removed. Dizziness while lying down can also be caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol triggers rotary vertigo attacks, which are worsened when lying down, especially with closed eyes.

During an alcohol intoxication there is a temporary inhibition of some sensory cells in the cerebellum, which makes it difficult to achieve correct coordination between the body position and the perceptions of the eyes. If there is tension in the neck or throat area, this can also lead to dizziness when lying down. Tension sends false signals from the muscles to the brain, which cannot process them properly.

The result is a feeling of dizziness. In this case, physiotherapeutic exercises and medication can be used to relax the muscles. In addition, dizziness when lying down can in many cases be caused by a defective regulation of the body’s circulation.

Both too low and too high blood pressure can lead to dizziness at night. In pregnant women, the increased pressure in the abdominal cavity when lying down can lead to impressions of the inferior vena cava. As a result, not enough blood returns to the heart, which can lead to dizziness, shortness of breath, palpitations and even fainting. To avoid this, women with an advanced pregnancy should avoid lying on their back for long periods of time.You are advised to adopt a position on the left side of your body when lying down.