dizziness and lightheadedness
Dizziness and lightheadedness are common symptoms that can stem from cardiovascular, neurological, inner ear, or metabolic changes requiring careful clinical evaluation.
Possible causes
- 01
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
commonDisplaced calcium carbonate crystals in the inner ear cause brief, intense spinning sensations triggered by head movements.
- 02
Orthostatic Hypotension
commonA sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing up, leading to temporary reduced blood flow to the brain.
- 03
Dehydration or Electrolyte Imbalance
commonInadequate fluid intake, especially in hot climates like Dubai, reduces blood volume and causes lightheadedness.
- 04
Iron Deficiency Anaemia
possibleLow red blood cell count or haemoglobin levels reduce oxygen delivery to the brain, causing persistent lightheadedness.
Recommended tests
GP consultation
→30–60 minute consultation with a British-trained GP — clinic, home or video.
Why: A GP can perform physical exams like the Dix-Hallpike manoeuvre and orthostatic blood pressure checks.
Full body blood test
→80+ marker screen — CBC, thyroid, liver, kidney, iron, vitamin D, HbA1c, lipids, hormones.
Why: Screens for anaemia, electrolyte imbalances, kidney function, and thyroid issues that cause dizziness.
ECG (electrocardiogram)
→12-lead ECG — palpitations, chest discomfort, pre-exercise clearance.
Why: Helps rule out underlying cardiac arrhythmias or conduction issues causing transient lightheadedness.
When to worry
- Sudden, severe headache or neck stiffness
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations
- Numbness, weakness, or paralysis in your face, arms, or legs
- Difficulty speaking, slurred speech, or confusion
- Fainting (syncope) or loss of consciousness
Related
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This page is educational triage information only. It is not a medical diagnosis and does not replace a consultation with a licensed doctor. Aafiyah Care Clinic — Unit G09, Churchill Executive Towers, Business Bay, Dubai. DHA-licensed.
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"Called at 8am with a fever, had a British-trained doctor at my door by 11. He sat with me for 45 minutes — not the 5 minutes I'm used to. Prescription delivered same day. Felt like having a proper GP again."
"We finally have one doctor who knows all of us. The kids actually like going. Follow-up calls happen without us chasing. Worth every dirham."
"The 40+ marker report came back with a real conversation, not a PDF dumped in my inbox. Caught a vitamin deficiency I'd been ignoring for years."
"After surgery I dreaded going back to a hospital for dressings. Their nurse came every other day, the doctor checked in by WhatsApp. Healed faster than I expected."
"Fell ill on day two of our trip. Doctor in the suite within 90 minutes, full assessment, prescription to the hotel pharmacy. Genuinely NHS-standard care in Dubai."
"My father refuses to leave the house. Aafiyah's team comes monthly, manages his medication, and treats him with such dignity. It changed everything for our family."
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