Dizziness and Weakness: Should I Be Worried?

By Fiorella M. | Updated: Jun 18, 2020

Ladies

Dizziness and weakness are complex conditions because there is no one particular cause, so it is often very difficult to pinpoint why they are happening and how to treat them. They can be scary because the sufferer is not sure whether or not they should be worried. The fact is, sometimes dizziness and weakness can be a cause of concern, and other times they are completely harmless. Read on to find out more about dizziness and weakness and when you should worry.

Weakness is slightly less common than dizziness

Dizziness

A person is experiencing dizziness when they feel lightheaded or unbalanced, and sometimes it can lead to fainting. Often, this can occur anywhere and so can potentially be quite dangerous - for example, if the person is driving. Even though dizziness can be indicative of something serious, it is most of the time no cause for concern. In fact, for most people, it will only be very occasional, and not dangerous.

Dizziness can occur for a vast number of reasons, some of which are more common, and some of which are rarer. Fortunately, most of the common reasons are not life-threatening and can be treated. Some of these are:

  • A viral illness that affects the ear
  • Migraine
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Drop in blood sugar levels
  • A sudden fall in blood pressure when you suddenly sit or stand up
  • Iron deficiency (i.e., anemia)
  • Hormone imbalance

Unfortunately, less common causes of dizziness can be dangerous and require urgent treatment. These include:

  • Any severe illness or disease that affects the whole body
  • Side effects from certain types of prescription medications, such as antidepressants or blood pressure medication
  • A heart rhythm problem, such as atrial fibrillation
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Dehydration and heatstroke

There is no way to tell from the dizziness itself whether or not to be worried, but an element of common sense should help you; if the dizziness is sudden, severe, or chronic, see a doctor. However, if it happens only when you stand up suddenly and goes away quickly, for example, then there is no need to panic.

Weakness

Weakness is a feeling of fatigue, and the sufferer can experience loss of strength either throughout their whole body or in just one part. It normally only lasts a few seconds and can be followed by fainting. Often, the person finds they cannot move a particular part of their body while the weakness is taking hold. Like with dizziness, it can often mean the sufferer feels unsteady, and they might need to lie down until it passes.

As well as the obvious loss of strength, some of the other symptoms of weakness are:

  • Yawning
  • A sudden, clammy sweat
  • Nausea
  • Fast, deep breathing
  • Confusion
  • Lightheadedness

Weakness is slightly less common than dizziness and is more likely to be a cause of worry. If it happens suddenly, it is essential to call the emergency services. Causes include:

  • Influenza
  • Medication side effects
  • Blood loss
  • Stroke

The lists of causes above are not exhaustive, but give you some idea of the more common causes of dizziness and weakness. In short, occasional dizziness on its own is rarely a cause for concern, but if it is coupled with weakness, then it should be taken more seriously. Weakness is more of a reason to worry, and if it occurs suddenly, urgent treatment might be needed. Read more about menopausal dizziness.

Related Articles

10 Tips for Preventing Dizziness during Menopause 10 Tips for Preventing Dizziness during Menopause
How Hormones Affect Dizziness and Balance How Hormones Affect Dizziness and Balance
Common Causes of Dizziness in Menopausal Women Common Causes of Dizziness in Menopausal Women