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Dizziness in Children

Dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness, unsteadiness or movement when the body is not actually moving. Some children describe it as feeling faint or as though the room is spinning.

Dehydration, illness, standing up quickly, migraine, inner-ear problems, anxiety, medicines and low blood sugar can all cause dizziness.

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AAP Guide to Dizziness in Children

The AAP guide below explains common causes, what can help and which symptoms need medical evaluation.

AAP Symptom CheckerDizziness

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Dizziness keeps returning or interferes with walking or normal activity.
  • Your child faints.
  • Your child has a severe headache, hearing changes, weakness or numbness.
  • Your child may be dehydrated or has another illness that is getting worse.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child collapses and does not recover normally.
  • Your child develops sudden weakness, trouble speaking or a seizure.
  • You think your child has a life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on knocks, pain and injuries

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms