Can Anxiety Cause Lightheadedness?

Have you ever felt like you are floating or about to faint when you are too anxious about something? It could be before speaking in front of a huge audience, or going for an interview, or any other moment that makes you feel anxious.

Anxiety is a widespread phenomenon. Every person has felt anxious in their life from time to time. However, if it starts affecting your daily life, relationships, etc., then it becomes a major problem.

How Does Anxiety Cause Lightheadedness?

Changes in Breathing

When you are feeling anxious, it often affects your breathing rate. You might notice that you are breathing faster or slower when anxiety hits. This causes a change in oxygen intake, which can make you feel dizzy.

Fast Heartbeat

Anxiety makes you feel scared, which increases your heart rate. This leads to more blood being pumped rapidly and the blood flow is changed which can even lead to low blood pressure. This sudden change in your body can cause lightheadedness.

Muscle Tension

Tight muscles, often caused by anxiety, can reduce blood flow to the brain and cause a heavy, dizzy feeling.

Adrenaline Rush

When you get anxious, your body releases the stress hormone known as adrenaline, which prepares you to react quickly but also creates side effects like shaky hands, sweating, and lightheadedness.

How To Know If Anxiety Is Causing Lightheadedness?

Lightheadedness is not only caused by anxiety. Several other situations can make you feel dizzy. Health conditions such as low blood sugar, dehydration, ear problems, or low blood pressure can also cause it.

So, how can you be sure if the lightheadedness you are feeling is due to anxiety?

• Notice if you only feel dizzy when you are anxious, or if it is a permanent feeling.
• Keep a check on any other symptoms like chest pain, etc.

If you notice the feeling is permanent or have other symptoms, then it might not be anxiety. It is advisable to check with a medical professional as soon as possible to get properly diagnosed and treated.

How to Manage Anxiety-Related Lightheadedness?

Here are some simple tips that can help you manage lightheadedness. However, you should keep in mind that these can only alleviate the symptoms temporarily. It is important to consult a board-certified and experienced psychiatrist who can help you get effective treatment.

• Deep Breathing: Whenever you feel anxious, notice the change in your breathing rate; focus on taking slow, deep breaths manually. Breathe in slowly through your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 2 seconds, then breathe out through your mouth for 6 seconds.
• Relax Your Muscles: Your body tenses up due to anxiety. Drop your shoulders, unclench your jaw, and stretch your neck. Releasing tension improves blood flow and reduces dizziness.
• Move Slowly: Lightheadedness can make you go awry. Hence, make sure you move around slowly to avoid falling or hitting something on the way. Lie down or sit until the feeling passes.
• Stay Hydrated: Being dehydrated can increase the feeling of lightheadedness. This can worsen your condition. Drink enough water and eat balanced meals to keep your energy steady.

Dealing with anxiety symptoms can feel overwhelming and difficult. The key is to remember that your body is reacting to stress, not to a life-threatening problem. Once you understand the connection, the fear of lightheadedness often reduces.

Many people find that with practice, breathing exercises, healthy habits, and professional support, both anxiety and dizziness can improve.

On an ending note, it is important to consult an anxiety specialist before you come to any conclusions. They will understand your symptoms, listen to you and then give you the diagnosis as well as tailor a treatment plan suitable for you.