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Doctor and Patient

Dizziness (Lightheadedness)

Dizziness can feel unsettling — whether it’s a sense of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or feeling close to fainting.
In many cases it is not serious, but it can sometimes indicate an underlying issue that needs assessment.

What Dizziness Can Mean

Dizziness can have a number of different causes.

Common and often benign causes include:

  • Dehydration

  • Standing up too quickly

  • Stress or anxiety

Other causes that may need assessment include:

  • Blood pressure changes

  • Heart rhythm problems

  • Inner ear conditions

Understanding how the symptom feels, when it occurs, and what triggers it is key to identifying the cause.

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Paramedic Using Radio
​When to Take Dizziness Seriously

You should seek urgent medical attention if you have:

  • Dizziness with chest pain or palpitations

  • Fainting or loss of consciousness

  • Persistent or worsening symptoms

  • Associated neurological symptoms (such as weakness or difficulty speaking)

If symptoms are recurrent or unexplained, they should be assessed.

Doctor in Office
Why see a general physycian?

Dizziness does not always have a single clear explanation.

A general physician considers circulation, heart rhythm, blood pressure, and neurological factors together to understand what may be contributing to your symptoms.

This is particularly helpful when symptoms are intermittent or difficult to describe.

How We Assess Dizziness

A structured assessment typically includes:

  • A detailed discussion of your symptoms and triggers

  • Review of your medical history and medications

  • Physical examination

  • Targeted investigations where appropriate

This helps identify the cause while avoiding unnecessary testing.

Doctor Consulting Patient
Related Symptoms
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Request an Appointment

If you are unsure where to start, this is usually the most appropriate first step.

This information is general and not a substitute for medical advice.

Possible Investigations
(if appropriate)

Dizziness can arise from the inner ear, blood pressure, heart rhythm, or general health. Investigations are selected to identify the underlying cause based on your symptoms and clinical assessment.

Blood tests

May include:

  • Full blood count (to assess for anaemia)

  • Blood glucose levels

  • Electrolytes and kidney function

  • Thyroid function

  • Inflammatory markers where relevant

IMAGING

Imaging is not routinely required but may be arranged if symptoms suggest a neurological or structural cause.

CARDIAC ASSESSMENT

Where appropriate:

  • Blood pressure measurement (including postural changes)

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)

  • Heart rhythm monitoring if indicated

BALANCE AND INNER EAR ASSESSMENT

Depending on your symptoms:

  • Clinical assessment of balance and coordination

  • Evaluation for positional vertigo

  • Referral for specialist vestibular testing if required

Investigations are targeted to distinguish between inner ear, cardiovascular, and other causes, while avoiding unnecessary testing.

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