Lingering dizziness after flu: what to know

Fever, sweating, vomiting, diarrhoea and reduced drinking can contribute to Dehydration. Eating less than usual may leave you lightheaded, while getting up quickly after bed rest can make symptoms more noticeable. Dizziness can mean lightheadedness or a spinning sensation, so describe which one you feel.

Other conditions can also present with dizziness, including Anaemia, Iron Deficiency Anaemia, Hypoglycaemia, Heat Exhaustion, Atrial Fibrillation, Generalised Anxiety Disorder or Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo. The trigger, pulse, hearing, movement and other symptoms help guide assessment.

Sit or lie down when dizzy, then rise slowly while holding a stable surface. Drink regularly and resume small, balanced meals if you can tolerate them. Avoid driving, heights and machinery until you know how your balance is affected. Keep your environment cool and ask someone to stay nearby if you feel at risk of falling.

Record when dizziness occurs, whether turning your head triggers spinning, how long episodes last, and any palpitations, headache, weakness or hearing change. Do not change prescription medicines or take iron supplements without professional advice.

Call emergency services for new one-sided weakness, facial drooping, difficulty speaking, severe chest pain, fainting, severe breathlessness or a sudden severe headache. Seek prompt care for repeated vomiting, inability to drink, a very fast or irregular heartbeat, confusion, new hearing loss or worsening balance. Arrange a medical review if dizziness persists or limits walking and daily tasks.

Ask whether your hydration, blood pressure, pulse, blood sugar or blood count should be checked. Explain whether the feeling is spinning or faintness, what positions trigger it, and which medicines or supplements you take. Ask what activity is safe while symptoms continue.