Dizziness

Definitions

Description

A range of sensations that can include feeling faint, woozy, weak, unsteady or a sense of spinning.

Self-care

Sit or lie down right away. Lie still with the eyes closed in a dark room to ease a sense of spinning. Don't drink alcohol or caffeine. These can make symptoms worse.

When to seek immediate medical care

Seek emergency help if dizziness happens with symptoms such as:

  • Sudden headache.
  • Chest pain.
  • Breathing problems.
  • Trouble feeling or moving arms or legs.
  • Passing out.
  • Double vision.
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Get help for dizziness if it:

  • Keeps coming back.
  • Starts quickly.
  • Feels terrible.
  • Lasts a long time.