What should you know about frequent fainting spells?

Some people faint after standing for a long time, rising quickly, experiencing heat or pain, or becoming dehydrated. A spell may also occur when food intake is low and hypoglycaemia develops. Anaemia can contribute to light-headedness and reduced oxygen delivery. Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rhythm that may cause palpitations, breathlessness, dizziness, or fainting. The setting, warning symptoms, and speed of recovery help a clinician decide which causes need testing.

At the first sign of light-headedness, weakness, nausea, sweating, or narrowing vision, lie down and raise your legs when possible. Sit or lie beside someone who has fainted, keep the area clear, and check that they are breathing. Once fully awake, offer small sips of fluid only if they can swallow normally. Avoid climbing, swimming alone, driving, and other hazardous activities until the episodes have been assessed. Keep a dated spell diary.

Get emergency help for chest pain, difficulty breathing, a pounding or irregular heartbeat, fainting during exertion, fainting while lying down, severe injury, seizure-like activity, or confusion that does not clear. Seek prompt review after any unexplained repeat spell, even if recovery was quick. A clinician may need to check blood pressure, blood tests, and heart rhythm.

Ask which triggers fit your story, whether medicines or missed meals could contribute, and which tests are appropriate. Explain your posture, activity, sensations before the spell, observed movements, injuries, and recovery. Ask when it is safe to drive or return to exercise.