Head pressure, dizziness and fatigue: what to know

Dizziness may feel like spinning, unsteadiness or feeling faint. Head pressure can occur with a headache, congestion, muscle tension or changes in hydration. Fatigue may accompany dehydration, heat exhaustion, low blood sugar, anaemia or iron deficiency anaemia. Anxiety can also produce lightheadedness and head sensations, while benign paroxysmal positional vertigo tends to cause brief spinning when the head changes position. Atrial fibrillation can cause dizziness with a racing or irregular heartbeat. These conditions differ, and the combination does not identify one diagnosis by itself.

Sit or lie down if you feel faint, move slowly when standing, and avoid driving or climbing until your balance is reliable. Sip water and move to a cool place if heat or sweating may be involved. If you have diabetes, follow your personal low-blood-sugar plan. Note when symptoms begin, what the pressure feels like, whether movement triggers spinning, your fluid and food intake, and any palpitations, fever, bleeding or heavy periods. Arrange a clinical assessment if symptoms keep returning, interfere with daily activities or do not settle.

Seek emergency help for sudden severe head pain, fainting, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, confusion, a new vision problem, chest pain, severe breathlessness or a sustained irregular heartbeat. Get prompt medical advice for repeated vomiting, inability to drink, marked drowsiness, signs of significant bleeding or symptoms after a head injury.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest a balance, circulation, hydration, blood-sugar or blood-count problem; which medicines or supplements could contribute; and whether examination or blood tests are appropriate. Mention pregnancy possibility, heavy menstrual bleeding, diabetes, recent illness and heat exposure.