diff --git a/src/mudlib/combat/commands.py b/src/mudlib/combat/commands.py
index 0da8b82..b26727e 100644
--- a/src/mudlib/combat/commands.py
+++ b/src/mudlib/combat/commands.py
@@ -80,8 +80,14 @@ async def do_attack(player: Player, target_args: str, move: CombatMove) -> None:
         CombatState.WINDOW,
     )
 
-    # Execute the attack
+    # Execute the attack (deducts stamina)
     encounter.attack(move)
+
+    # Send vitals update immediately after stamina deduction
+    from mudlib.gmcp import send_char_vitals
+
+    send_char_vitals(player)
+
     if switching:
         await player.send(f"You switch to {move.name}!\r\n")
     else:
@@ -106,6 +112,11 @@ async def do_defend(player: Player, _args: str, move: CombatMove) -> None:
 
     player.stamina -= move.stamina_cost
 
+    # Send vitals update immediately after stamina deduction
+    from mudlib.gmcp import send_char_vitals
+
+    send_char_vitals(player)
+
     # If in combat, queue the defense on the encounter
     encounter = get_encounter(player)
     if encounter is not None: