What should you know about depression and dizziness?

Dizziness may feel like light-headedness, imbalance or spinning. Depression can bring reduced activity, poor sleep, anxiety, appetite changes and slower concentration, any of which may make dizziness more noticeable. Dehydration, low blood pressure, an inner-ear problem, anaemia, medicine effects and low blood sugar are other possibilities. The timing, triggers and exact sensation help a clinician narrow the cause.

Sit or lie down when dizzy, rise slowly and avoid driving, heights or machinery until the feeling has settled. Drink fluids if you can, eat regular meals and record episodes, including posture, movement, hearing changes, headache, palpitations and medicines. Book a GP assessment if episodes recur, last, follow a new medicine or occur with low mood, fatigue or poor sleep.

Seek emergency care for sudden weakness or numbness on one side, facial drooping, trouble speaking, fainting, severe chest pain, a sudden severe headache, new confusion or inability to walk safely. Seek urgent help as well if depression includes thoughts of suicide or you cannot keep yourself safe.

Ask what type of dizziness you may be experiencing, whether blood pressure or blood tests are appropriate, and how depression, anxiety, sleep and current medicines may be considered together.