Symptoms
When you exercise, your heart rate and blood pressure automatically rise to accommodate accelerating body movement. As your body is in motion, your heart pumps more blood to help support working muscles. When you begin to cool down and your body starts to rest, heart rate and blood pressure begin to slow down. In some cases after exercise, you may experience unsettling feelings of being lightheaded. Feeling lightheaded or dizzy may feel like the room is spinning or moving, make you unsteady on your feet or prompt the sensation that you might faint or pass out.
Causes
Several conditions may cause dizziness after working out. A sudden drop in blood pressure, for example, may lead to low blood pressure or hypotension. When your blood pressure drops, you will begin to feel dizzy and lightheaded. Low blood sugar levels and dehydration can also cause dizziness after a workout. If you are working out on a treadmill or elliptical machine, you may experience feelings of vertigo from the movement of the equipment. When you get off of the machine, your body may still think you are moving -- when you try to stand still, you may feel like you are still moving.
Solution
If you experience a sudden drop in blood pressure, lay down and rest until feelings of dizziness pass. This will help you avoid passing out or falling. If you are experiencing hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, consume a food with a high carbohydrate and sugar content, such as a candy bar or soda, to increase blood glucose levels. For dehydration, restore electrolytes with an electrolyte replenishment drink and water. When motion sickness is causing feelings of uneasiness, find a comfortable place to sit upright until the feeling passes. After exercising, avoid walking or being in situations where you could fall and injure yourself.
Prevention
Prevent dizziness after working out by getting a physical from your doctor. He will perform a physical examination to check your blood pressure and respiration and ensure that you are healthy enough for exercise. He may run blood tests to determine blood glucose, sodium and potassium levels in the blood, as well as record your thyroid hormone level. High thyroid levels can lead to weakness, dizziness and rapid heart rate. Manage your blood pressure and blood sugar levels by eating a healthy, balanced diet from all of the food groups -- grains, protein, dairy, vegetables and fruit. Stay hydrated and do not overwork tired muscles.
