When I stand up, I get super dizzy and sometimes black out. My eyesight keeps going halfway out when I start to get active. Why? I’m afraid that something is wrong with my blood sugars. I don’t know how to bring it up with my extremely strict parents.

Thank you for asking, this is an important question. First, it is important to mention that the symptoms you are experiencing may be caused by a serious medical condition, so it’s important to speak with your health care provider (HCP). If you are afraid to bring it up to your parents, you can start by speaking with an HCP at your school like a school nurse. If your school doesn’t have nurses, you can call your provider’s office, and explain your symptoms and situation. They will most likely be able to help you schedule an appointment with your provider where they see you alone first and then welcome your parents to join the appointment.

Dizziness and vision changes can happen for a lot of different reasons. Including different medical conditions, medications, and diet changes. While waiting for your appointment, it might be a good idea to increase your daily fluid intake and make sure to eat regularly. For teens who were assigned female at birth, it’s recommended that they consume 2.7 liters of fluids (preferably water) per day, that is nearly twelve 8oz cups per day! Although this change may be helpful, it should not replace a visit to a health care provider!