Dizziness

Key facts

Dizziness is a term used to describe feeling lightheaded, unsteady, or like the room is spinning (vertigo). It can have many causes, from simple dehydration to inner ear problems.

Most often affects:Elderly adults 65+Pregnant womenPeople on blood pressure medication

What commonly causes dizziness

• Low blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension)
• Dehydration — especially in warm weather
• Inner ear problems (BPPV, labyrinthitis)
• Anaemia (low iron)
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Medication side effects

What helps at home

• Sit or lie down immediately when feeling dizzy — prevent falls
• Do not do anything that could be dangerous while you're dizzy — do not drive, climb a ladder or use heavy machinery until it has passed.
• Drink water slowly and stay well hydrated throughout the day
• Avoid sudden changes in position — rise slowly from sitting or lying
• Eat regular small meals to maintain blood sugar levels
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco
• See a GP if the dizziness is triggered by moving your head — if they diagnose BPPV they may treat it with a repositioning procedure or refer you to a specialist. Do not try repositioning manoeuvres on yourself.

When to get help

These three levels are different. Getting the level right is the single most useful thing this page can do for you.

Questions people ask about dizziness

Reducing the chance of it coming back

• Stay well hydrated — the NHS suggests 6 to 8 cups or glasses of fluid a day; water, lower-fat milk, tea and coffee all count.
• Get up slowly from bed or chairs
• Eat iron-rich foods (red meat, spinach, lentils) to prevent anaemia
• Limit alcohol intake and avoid binge drinking