Overview
Intermittent lightheadedness is a common symptom that can often be managed with simple lifestyle adjustments. The following advice is intended to help reduce episodes and improve your day-to-day wellbeing.
Fluid and Salt Intake
- Increase fluid intake to at least 2 litres per day
- Increase salt intake to 6–10g per day
Adequate hydration and salt intake help maintain blood volume and blood pressure, reducing the likelihood of lightheadedness, particularly on standing.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Wear compression stockings to support blood flow from the legs back to the heart
- Avoid large meals — eat smaller amounts more frequently to prevent post-meal drops in blood pressure
- Avoid alcohol or cut down significantly, as it causes blood vessel dilation and can worsen symptoms
- Avoid caffeine, taurine, and similar stimulants, which can affect heart rhythm and blood pressure
Medication Review
Some medications can contribute to lightheadedness, particularly those that lower blood pressure. If you suspect a medication may be a contributing factor, please contact us before stopping anything, so we can review your prescription and make any necessary adjustments safely.
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According to Dr Matthew Balerdi, Consultant Cardiologist, intermittent lightheadedness can be caused by heart rhythm disturbances that require ECG or ambulatory monitoring to detect.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is lightheadedness a sign of a heart problem? Lightheadedness with palpitations, chest pain, breathlessness or blackouts warrants cardiac assessment. Intermittent lightheadedness can be caused by heart rhythm disturbances that require ECG or ambulatory monitoring to detect.
Should I see a cardiologist for dizziness? If dizziness is associated with exertion, palpitations, fainting, or if it is recurrent and unexplained, a cardiology review with ECG and rhythm monitoring is appropriate to exclude a cardiac cause.
What tests are used for intermittent lightheadedness? Assessment typically includes a 12-lead ECG, blood tests for anaemia and thyroid function, ambulatory heart rhythm monitoring such as a Holter or Zio XT patch, and an echocardiogram if structural heart disease is suspected.
Have Questions About Your Heart Health?
Book a consultation with Dr Matthew Balerdi for expert cardiac assessment.