Fainting – What it Means to Lose Consciousness
What is fainting and what causes it?
Fainting also known as syncope is defined as a sudden and brief loss of consciousness and posture. Syncope is caused by decreased blood flow to the brain, and there are many different conditions that can cause fainting, which can include:
- Heart problems (irregular heartbeats, seizures, panic or anxiety attacks)
- Low Blood Sugar
- Anemia
- Problems with how the nervous system regulates blood pressure
At times, fainting can occur in people who are otherwise healthy. Individuals who are elderly often experience fainting, which causes injuries once they fall. Most cases are brief, and the individual typically regains consciousness within a few minutes.
What are the symptoms of fainting?
The symptoms of fainting may depend on the cause of your fainting spell, but some or all of these symptoms can occur before or during the episode:
- Weakness
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Ringing in ears
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Incontinence
- Blurred vision
- Sensation that the room is moving
- Paleness
- Tingling or numbness of fingertips and around lips
- Bluish cast of the skin
When should medical attention be sought for fainting?
See a health care provider right away if the person:
- Hits his or her head when fainting
- Is pregnant, has a heart condition or other serious illness
- Faints more than once a month
- Experiences unusual symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, confusion, blurred vision, or difficulty talking
Visit your nearest Healthpointe Urgent Care location today to receive immediate medical attention if you have experienced any fainting or syncope spells or give us a call 888-719-8448.
About Healthpointe:
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles county, Orange county, San Bernardino county and Riverside county). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Anaheim, which is conveniently located near Whittier, La Habra, Norwalk, La Mirada, Cerritos, Buena Park and Santa Fe Springs. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit healthpointe.net