What should you know about fainting what to do?

Fainting is a short period of unconsciousness caused by temporarily reduced blood flow to the brain. A person may first feel dizzy, hot, sick, sweaty, weak, or notice blurred vision. Common triggers include standing for a long time, pain, fear, heat, dehydration, or seeing blood. Other causes, including anaemia, hypoglycaemia, or a heart rhythm problem, also need consideration.

The way an episode starts matters. A clear warning followed by rapid recovery is different from collapse during exertion, fainting without warning, or prolonged confusion. Note what the person was doing, any symptoms beforehand, and how they recovered.

Clear nearby objects, lay the person on their back, and raise their legs if there is no suspected injury. Check that they are breathing normally. Do not slap them, force them upright, or give food, drink, or medicine while they are unconscious. If they vomit but are breathing, place them on their side. Once fully awake, offer small sips of water if appropriate and let them rest before standing slowly.

Call emergency services if breathing is abnormal, awareness does not return promptly, there is chest pain, severe breathlessness, a major injury, seizure activity, new neurological symptoms, or fainting during exercise. Medical review is also appropriate after a first faint, repeated episodes, pregnancy, known heart disease, or symptoms that could reflect dehydration, low blood sugar, or blood loss.

Ask what checks are needed, how to recognise your warning signs, whether to change fluid or meal habits, and when normal exercise and driving are safe. Bring a witness's description if available.