Lightheadedness

Description

Feeling dizzy or about to faint.

Self-care

Move with caution. Don't stand up too quickly. Hold on to something when walking and on stairs. Stay well hydrated and limit caffeine. Don't smoke.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a healthcare professional right away for lightheadedness along with:

• Pain such as a sudden, severe headache or chest pain.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Loss of feeling or movement in the arms or legs, stumbling or trouble walking, or loss of feeling or weakness in the face.
• Trouble breathing.
• Fainting or seizures.
• Trouble with the eyes or ears, such as double vision or a sudden change in hearing.
• Confusion or slurred speech.
• Ongoing vomiting.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a healthcare professional if lightheadedness:

• Keeps coming back.
• Starts suddenly.
• Disrupts daily life.
• Lasts a long time.
• Has no clear cause.