Dizziness and lightheadedness
Feeling dizzy or lightheaded is common and usually not serious. It can feel like the room is spinning (vertigo), like you might faint, or just like you are unsteady on your feet. Most short episodes are caused by something minor — standing up too fast, low blood sugar, an inner-ear problem or a viral infection.
Common causes
- Standing up quickly (postural hypotension)
- Dehydration, missed meals, or low blood sugar
- Inner-ear problems such as BPPV or labyrinthitis
- Migraines
- Anxiety and panic
- Side effects of some medicines
Looking after yourself
- Sit or lie down until the dizziness passes
- Drink some water and eat something
- Stand up slowly, especially after sitting or lying for a while
- Cut down on caffeine and alcohol
- If dizziness comes with certain head movements, an inner-ear problem is likely — see your GP
When to get medical help
Use NHS 111 online, call 111, or contact your GP if:
- Dizziness that keeps coming back or is affecting your daily life
- Dizziness with hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or nausea
- You are on new medication and dizziness started around then
Call 999 or go to A&E if dizziness comes with any of: chest pain, palpitations, slurred speech, weakness or numbness on one side, sudden severe headache, or a fit — these can be signs of stroke or a heart problem.
Further information
This page provides general information only. It is not a diagnosis and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.