Lightheadedness, dizziness and fatigue: what should you know?

Dehydration can reduce circulating fluid and make standing feel difficult, while Anaemia can reduce oxygen delivery and contribute to tiredness, breathlessness, or a racing heartbeat. COVID-19 may bring fatigue with dizziness during an acute illness or recovery. Coeliac Disease can affect nutrient absorption and energy when untreated.

Burnout, Alcohol Use Disorder, Chronic Kidney Disease, and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can also be associated with persistent fatigue, but the pattern and accompanying symptoms differ. Feeling dizzy can mean lightheadedness, imbalance, or a spinning sensation, so describing it accurately helps guide assessment.

Sit down when symptoms begin, rise gradually, drink fluids if you can, and eat regular balanced meals. Keep a brief record of sleep, medicines, meals, activity, bleeding, illness, and whether symptoms occur after standing. Do not drive or climb while dizzy.

Book a GP review if symptoms last, return often, or limit work and daily tasks. Bring a medicine and supplement list; do not stop prescribed treatment without advice.

Get urgent help for fainting, chest pain, severe breathlessness, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, confusion, a severe headache, black or bloody stools, repeated vomiting, or inability to keep fluids down. Seek prompt assessment for rapidly worsening symptoms or a very fast or irregular heartbeat.

Ask whether your symptoms suggest a blood, thyroid, nutrition, hydration, sleep, or medication problem; whether tests are appropriate; and how to recognise a change that needs urgent care.