Cardiac dizziness refers to lightheadedness, near-fainting, or fainting that may be related to heart rhythm abnormalities, low blood pressure, valve disease, poor cardiac output, or other cardiovascular causes.
Not all dizziness is cardiac. A careful evaluation helps separate heart rhythm causes from neurologic, vestibular, medication-related, dehydration-related, or blood pressure-related causes.
Symptoms patients may notice
- Lightheadedness, feeling faint, or near-syncope
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Palpitations, slow pulse, or rapid heartbeat during episodes
- Weakness, sweating, nausea, or blurred vision before fainting
- Dizziness with exertion, chest pain, or shortness of breath
How we evaluate this condition
- Orthostatic blood pressure and pulse assessment
- EKG and rhythm monitoring
- Echocardiogram or stress testing when structural disease or exertional symptoms are present
- Medication review and coordination with neurology or primary care when appropriate
Treatment and care options
- Medication adjustment, hydration guidance, or blood pressure management
- Pacemaker evaluation for significant bradycardia or heart block when indicated
- Rhythm-specific treatment for tachycardia or arrhythmia-related dizziness
- Lifestyle strategies such as slow position changes and trigger avoidance when appropriate
When to seek urgent care
Call 911 for fainting during exercise, fainting with chest pain, severe shortness of breath, palpitations with near-collapse, or stroke symptoms.