Numerous conditions can make a person feel both tired and dizzy. These include chronic fatigue syndrome, hypoglycemia, iron-deficiency anemia, migraine, and more.

Fatigue is an extreme physical and mental tiredness that does not go away with rest or sleep. Dizziness can refer to lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or vertigo. Both symptoms result from several health states and conditions, only some of which are serious.

Here, we look at five common causes of dizziness and fatigue. We also discuss associated symptoms and what can be done to help.

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As indicated in the name, fatigue is the main symptom of CFS, and it can be so severe that it creates difficulty in performing everyday tasks. The condition is also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis.

In addition to fatigue and dizziness, a person with CFS may experience:

The symptoms may be mild, moderate, or severe and tend to worsen after exercise.

Chronic fatigue syndrome treatment

In the event of CFS, there is no cure or approved treatment, though some symptoms may be manageable. Specialists tend to recommend habits that help to manage sleep problems. These can include having a regular bedtime, and removing TVs and computers from the bedroom.

A doctor may recommend wearing support stockings to help with dizziness and light-headedness. Because the cause of CFS is unknown, there is no known prevention.

Hypoglycemia occurs when the blood glucose level drops below normal. It is also known as low blood glucose or low blood sugar. The condition commonly occurs in cases of insulin-dependent diabetes. People with this long-term condition do not properly process glucose, the body’s main energy source, and require insulin supplementation.

Symptoms of mild to moderate hypoglycemia can vary from person to person. People with hypoglycemia can also experience any combination of the following symptoms:

Hypoglycemia treatment

Consuming glucose manages mild to moderate hypoglycemia in people with diabetes mellitus. There are many ways to do this. Some may consume four glucose tablets or a tube of gel. Others may prefer half a cup of fruit juice or a tablespoon of sugar, honey, or corn syrup.

If a person with diabetes mellitus frequently needs to consume extra glucose, this shows that their condition is not being appropriately managed. Changes should be made to the dosage of insulin or other medications.

Severe hypoglycemia requires hospital treatment. People with diabetes mellitus are advised to eat regular meals and check their blood glucose levels frequently, to avoid hypoglycemia.

Iron helps to carry oxygen around the body, maintaining healthy cells and tissues. A lack of iron can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which may cause dizziness and fatigue.

Other symptoms can include:

  • pale or yellow skin
  • shortness of breath or chest pain
  • rapid heartbeat
  • a pounding or “whooshing” noise in the ears
  • brittle nails or hair loss

The following can increase a person’s risk of iron-deficiency anemia.

Iron-deficiency anemia treatment

A doctor manages iron-deficiency anemia by increasing the person’s intake of iron, usually with supplements. To prevent the condition, a diet rich in iron is recommended. Good sources of iron include:

  • meat
  • fish
  • legumes
  • leafy green vegetables, such as broccoli and kale

A migraine is a type of recurrent headache that causes painful throbbing in one or both sides of the head. Migraines can diminish a person’s ability to perform daily activities and are often accompanied by symptoms such as:

  • feeling sensitive to light and sound
  • nausea and vomiting
  • experiencing aura, which may include
    • seeing flashes or spots of light
    • a feeling of pins and needles in the face or arms
    • trouble thinking and speaking

Migraine treatment

The best treatments for migraine vary from person to person. Some find relief by using painkillers, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. Others may prefer anti-nausea medications. Prescription medications are also available.

Avoiding the factors that trigger migraine can help prevent their occurrence. These triggers also vary but can include stress, certain foods, and sleeping too much or too little.

A concussion is a temporary brain injury, caused by a knock to the head. The injury can last a few days or weeks. Symptoms usually appear within a few minutes of the impact and can include:

Concussion treatment

In cases of minor injuries, symptoms may resolve with plenty of rest, avoiding mentally taxing activities and alcohol, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers.

However, physical blows to the head can lead to severe complications and immediate medical assistance may be required.

The symptoms below may indicate a severe concussion. Immediately seek medical attention if any of the following are present after a head injury:

  • unconsciousness
  • memory problems
  • a headache that will not go away
  • continual vomiting
  • changes in behavior

Anyone who experiences repeated episodes of dizziness and fatigue should speak to a doctor. This is particularly true if a person suspects that they have a chronic illness, such as CFS or diabetes mellitus, which requires long-term management.

Dizziness and fatigue are common symptoms of a range of conditions. In most cases, the underlying cause can be managed at home or by a healthcare professional.

If the cause of simultaneous dizziness and fatigue is unknown, it may be a good idea to consult a doctor.