Dizziness

Dizziness can affect people in different ways, such as light-headedness, spinning sensations, or feeling unsteady.

There are a number of common causes of dizziness. Identifying the possible causes of dizziness is an important part of finding the right treatment. Dizziness can be related to several things, including:

Drop in Blood Pressure

A sudden drop in blood pressure is often experienced when changing position (e.g., standing up from a chair). To minimise the risk:

• Change position slowly.
• Move your arms and legs around before getting up.
• Sit back down if you feel dizzy and wait until it passes.
• Stand still or walk on the spot when you first get up, avoiding sudden movements.

Dehydration

Not drinking enough fluid can contribute to dizziness. To stay well hydrated:

• Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day (aim for 6-8 cups).
• Sip water regularly.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, as they can lead to dehydration.

Inner Ear Disorders and Vertigo

If you experience a sensation that the world is moving or spinning, or if dizziness is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, visual changes, or hearing disturbances, it may be a sign of inner ear issues. Consider the following steps:

• Contact your GP surgery for further advice and assessment.
• Make sure you have had a recent hearing test.

Medications

Dizziness can be a side effect of some medications, especially those you take for high blood pressure. If you experience dizziness while taking medication consult your GP or a community pharmacist for potential adjustments to your medication prescription.

Underlying Medical Conditions (e.g., Diabetes, COPD)

Certain medical conditions may increase the likelihood of dizziness.

• Make sure that any medical conditions are it is well-managed through regular check-ups.
• If you think your medical condition may be causing dizziness, consult your GP or a health professional. 
• Mention to your health professional if you have had one or more falls.

Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can contribute to dizziness. To ease symptoms:

• Try relaxation techniques like mindfulness or deep breathing exercises.
• If symptoms persist or are severe, discuss them with your GP for further guidance.

Find Support

Please find below useful links, relevant resources and contact information. All links open in a new window and may include links to websites, videos, and PDF files for downloading and printing. 

[box]

Local Support 

Visit our Help and Contacts section
Find local help and support
Find help to stay active in your area
Find local home safety support

[/box]

[box]

Falls Prevention Support

Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent ICB
Preventing falls – Stay steady, stay independent

Midlands Partnership University Trust - Falls Prevention
Local Falls Teams and falls prevention services contact information for South Staffordshire, North Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent and East Staffordshire.

Active Communities Stoke
Specialist-led sessions for physical and mental wellbeing, community-based activities in local venues and green spaces and supportive programmes for older adults, carers, and those with long-term conditions.

Everyone Health - Staffordshire
NHS Health Check is a free check-up for people aged 40 to 74. They are designed to spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease and diabetes.

Age UK Stafford & District
Offers lots of services for older people and their carers.

MPFT Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent - CBT
Talking Therapies Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent.

[/box]

[box]

Social Services

You are struggling with day-to-day living at home, and you feel you might need care support.

Staffordshire County Council
Phone: 0300 111 8010 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm)    

Stoke-on-Trent City Council 
Phone: 0800 561 0015  

[/box]

[box]

Community Directory

Stoke on Trent Community Directory
Community directory is an online tool to help you find out about activities, clubs, support, health services, and what’s on in your local area.          

Live Well at Home - Staffordshire County Council
Your guide to living safely and confidently in your own home, with practical tips and local support.

Staffordshire Connects - Adults and Communities
Find details of community-based support, groups, organisations, and services that are available on your doorstep.

[/box]

[box]

Support with Specific Conditions

MPFT Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent - CBT
If your dizziness is linked to anxiety, panic, or other mental health issues, this service can provide talking therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

UHNM - Adult Sleep Service
University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) - Adult Sleep Service for common sleep problems.

[/box]

[box]

Helpful Links 

Dizziness guidance and advice - NHS
Signs and symptoms of stress - NHS
Support with vestibular disorders, balance and dizziness - M&VUK
Self-management for dizziness -M&VUK
Vestibular diagnosis and testing - M&VUK

[/box]

[box]

More on this website

Visit our Information and Advice section
Visit our Staying Active section
Visit our Home Safety section
Visit our Help and Contacts section 
Start your online Self-Assessment

[/box]