The medical word for fainting

People may also say blackout, although blackout can describe other events and is less precise. A person with syncope generally recovers consciousness without needing to be awakened.

Syncope occurs when blood flow to the brain drops briefly. It can follow prolonged standing, heat, pain, emotional stress, dehydration, or a sudden change in posture. Some heart rhythm problems can also present with fainting.

Other conditions may resemble or contribute to an episode. Anaemia can present with dizziness and faintness; dehydration can produce light-headedness; hypoglycaemia may cause sweating, confusion, and loss of consciousness; and atrial fibrillation can present with palpitations, breathlessness, dizziness, or fainting. The event details help distinguish among explanations.

Lower the person safely to the floor and protect them from nearby hazards. Check that they are breathing. If breathing normally and no major injury is suspected, lay them flat and raise their legs; loosen tight clothing and allow fresh air.

Do not give food or drink until they are fully alert. Note what happened beforehand, how long they were unresponsive, any unusual movements, chest symptoms, and how they felt afterward. This account is useful during assessment.

Call emergency services if the person is not breathing normally, does not regain consciousness promptly, has chest pain, severe breathlessness, a persistent irregular heartbeat, new weakness or speech difficulty, a serious injury, or a seizure. Fainting during exercise also requires urgent assessment.

Medical review is appropriate after a first unexplained faint, repeated episodes, fainting without warning, or an event in someone with known heart disease. Do not drive yourself for urgent evaluation.

Describe your position, activity, warning sensations, recovery, medicines, food and fluid intake, and any witness account. Ask whether a heart rhythm check, blood pressure measurements in different positions, or blood tests are appropriate for your circumstances.