Feb. 2, 2022 | Syncope is a medical term used to describe a temporary loss of consciousness due to the sudden decline of blood flow to the brain. Syncope is commonly called fainting or “passing out.” If an individual is about to faint, he or she will feel dizzy, lightheaded or nauseated and their field of vision may “white out” or “black out.”  The skin may become cold and clammy.  There could be a sudden, unexplained loss of muscle control. The person usually drops to the floor as he or she loses consciousness. They may feel stressed out and anxious or sweaty, or possibly have a headache or ringing in their ears. After fainting, an individual may be unconscious for a minute or two but will revive and slowly return to normal.  Syncope can occur in otherwise healthy people and affects all age groups, but it occurs more often in the elderly. Most fainting spells are not a cause for concern. But if you faint often or have other symptoms, you should seek medical attention.

Feb. 2, 2022 | The most common reason for fainting, or syncope, is a sudden drop in blood pressure, which reduces blood flow and oxygen to the brain. Cardiac syncope involves fainting due to a heart problem. Many heart conditions can affect how much oxygenated blood is pumped to the brain. Carotid sinus syncope can happen when the carotid artery in the neck is constricted. This can occur when someone wears a very tight collar, stretches or turns the neck too much. Certain bodily movements or functions can naturally cause a drop in blood pressure that may lead to fainting spells, a condition known as situational syncope. Vasovagal syncope can occur when a person experiences a stressful event, such as the sight of blood. The stressful event stimulates a bodily reflex called the vasovagal reaction. The heart slows down and pumps less blood, so their blood pressure drops. Then the brain doesn’t get enough oxygenated blood, and the person faints.

Feb. 2, 2022 | Fainting is usually not a sign of a serious health problem, but it can be. The first thing you should do for someone who has lost consciousness is to check to see if their airway is open and they are breathing. Make sure their heart is beating at a normal rate. The person should remain lying down for at least 10 to 15 minutes, preferably in a cool and quiet space. If this isn’t possible, have the individual sit forward and lower their head below their shoulders and between their knees. This helps get the blood flowing to the brain. Be sure that the person hasn’t suffered any injuries, such as a cut or head wound, that might need medical attention. Suggest they have a cool drink of water to help them relax. Wait until they feel better before allowing them stand, and when they do, make sure they stand up slowly. Driving after a fainting spell isn’t recommended. Calling 911 is an option but will be unnecessary if the person is able to walk on their own.

Feb. 2, 2022 | Fainting, or syncope, is common and usually not serious. However, individuals who have problems with chronic fainting spells should focus on recognizing the triggers and learning ways to keep from fainting. For example, if getting up too quickly sometimes makes you pass out, learn to take your time in standing up. At the appearance of warning signs such as lightheadedness, nausea, or cold and clammy skin, counter-pressure maneuvers that involve gripping your fingers into a fist, tensing the arms, and crossing the legs or squeezing the thighs together can be used to ward off a fainting spell. If fainting spells occur often without a triggering event, this may be a sign of an underlying heart disease. In most cases, fainting can be treated and controlled. Often, diagnosing what is causing the fainting is the most difficult part. If your fainting is not under control, you should talk to your doctor about whether it is safe for you to drive.

Feb. 2, 2022 | There are a number of reasons for a fainting spell. Maybe you skipped too many meals, or maybe you’ve been working or exercising too hard, especially in the heat. Substances like alcohol or marijuana can cause you to lose consciousness. Certain medications, like diuretics, nitrates for heart disease, narcotics for pain and antihistamines for allergies can cause you to pass out momentarily. If you faint once and are in good health otherwise, you probably don’t need to talk to a health care provider. But you should seek medical attention if you are injured due to a fainting fall, if you have frequent fainting spells or if you take longer than a few minutes to regain consciousness. If you lose consciousness and have blurry vision, chest pain, an irregular heartbeat or shortness of breath, you should see a physician. It’s also a good idea to report a loss of consciousness if you are pregnant, have diabetes or have a problem with your heart or blood pressure.