QUESTION: My, father who is 79, has had spells of light-headedness when he stands suddenly.
His doctor diagnosed the problem as a result of some heart medication he is taking.
However, I have recently experienced the same problem on several occasions, though I am only 49, exercise regularly 5 to 6 times a week, and am fit and in great health.
I take no medication, and my question is whether or not this may be some type of inherited problem.
Do you have an answer for me?
ANSWER: As you sit and read this answer, take your pulse.
My bet is that it may be somewhere in the range of 60 to 65, perhaps lower, and certainly below the range of a normal pulse, which is usually between 72 and 78 beats a minute.
A slow pulse of this nature, which reflects the speed at which the heart is beating, is common in athletes or those who maintain a regular, somewhat strenuous exercise program.
And it is this slow beat which may be at the root of your light-headedness just as it is with your Dad, although the cause is different.
When we are at seated at rest, the heart beats with enough force to send the pressure into our head, and nourish the brain with needed nutrients and precious oxygen.
When we stand suddenly, additional pressure is needed to compensate for the abrupt increase in height.
In people with the heart beating at near normal speed the next beat is less than a second away, while in individuals with slower pulse the time needed for the next surge of blood increases to more than 1 second and approaches 2 seconds in individuals with pulses closer to 30 beats per second.
For that period of time, the brain has less than the amount of oxygen it needs and a feeling of light-headedness occurs that may approach dizziness or even fainting.
Your cause is the state of physical fitness you have achieved.
In your Dad's case, the medication is responsible for slowing his heart beat, although it may be increasing the force of the beat and helping his condition.
What is clear is that your condition is neither the result of any inherited traits nor in any way dangerous.
The truth is you should continue your healthful ways, and possibly avoid some of the problems that might be the reason for your Dad's need of medication.
The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician.
Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.
