High blood pressure and dizziness

Dizziness can mean lightheadedness, imbalance or a spinning sensation. It may follow standing quickly, dehydration, heat, low blood sugar, anaemia, anxiety or a medicine effect. A spinning sensation triggered by head movement can fit [Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo](/conditions/benign-paroxysmal-positional-vertigo/), while a racing or irregular heartbeat may point toward [Atrial Fibrillation](/conditions/atrial-fibrillation/).

High blood pressure often causes no symptoms, so dizziness cannot confirm that pressure is high. A reading may be affected by stress, pain, caffeine, exercise or cuff position. Repeated, correctly taken readings give more useful information than one result.

If dizzy, sit or lie down until the sensation passes, rise slowly and avoid driving or climbing. Sip fluids if you have no fluid restriction. Check blood sugar if you have diabetes and have been taught how. Record what you were doing, whether the room spun, your reading, medicines and associated symptoms.

Arrange a review if episodes recur, last longer, follow a new medicine or occur with palpitations, hearing changes or falls. Do not stop blood-pressure treatment without advice. Tell the clinician about heavy periods, recent heat exposure, vomiting, diarrhoea and any history of [Iron Deficiency Anaemia](/conditions/iron-deficiency-anaemia/).

Call emergency services for sudden one-sided weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, severe chest pain, fainting, severe breathlessness, a new severe headache or inability to walk safely. Seek prompt advice for repeated near-fainting, a very abnormal heartbeat or dizziness after a head injury.

Ask whether your symptoms sound like spinning or lightheadedness, how to monitor pressure at home, whether medicines or dehydration could contribute, and whether blood tests or an ear and heart assessment are appropriate.