Fainting is a curious phenomenon that a person could lose control of their functions and the body temporarily suspend consciousness. Under what circumstances could this happen?
Well, there are many: if a person is disposed to hysteria the slightest excitement could trigger a fainting episode; fright or hunger; during menstruation for women; weak and anemic people could have fainting spells; chills or exertion, strenuous physical activity; exposure to poisonous fumes; underlying diseases can cause fainting such as high blood pressure, heart failure, hemorrhage; or if any organ or the brain has been injured; dehydration; low blood sugar; a stroke or seizure; and so on.
Fainting occurs because of a decrease in the blood flow to the brain and so there is a temporary loss of consciousness. It is known medically as syncope and can occur in anybody of any age from a child to an elderly person.
If you are able to detect a fainting spell coming on then you can stave it off by sitting down and putting your head between your knees so that there is an increased flow of oxygen to the brain.
If you have to attend to an unconsciousness person then lay them flat down on the floor and keep their feet raised.
You could then sprinkle cold water on them or hold smelling salts such as ammonia spirits to their nose to restore consciousness, but don’t, on any account, make them swallow any medicines or liquids. If they don’t come around within a few minutes then it’s best to get them medical attention immediately. If they regain consciousness then let them keep lying down for another 15 minutes or so and then get up gradually.
While the cause of the fainting episode may not be serious a person may be injured when falling into a faint. Some people may be aware that a fainting fit is imminent and can immediately lie down but not all are similarly warned by their body. Whatever the cause of the syncope, a person should be evaluated by a doctor so that they are protected from a repeated loss of consciousness.
If you are a victim of this disorder then consult a physician immediately. You will be asked to go over your medical history thoroughly and also undergo a complete physical examination.
Almost always, the symptoms present can be enough to diagnose why there is syncope but otherwise some tests may be prescribed. Generally heart disease may be suspected but the tests will be tailored according to the symptoms described. An electrocardiogram, ECG, Holter recording, and Tilt table testing are some of the tests that may be suggested.
A patient is treated for fainting or syncope depending on the cause and treatment could range from something as simple as a change in diet or daily medication to surgery or installing a pacemaker.
A fainting spell sounds innocuous but don’t ignore it even if it happens only once. It could be an indicator of something as serious as heart disease. See a doctor and establish the cause. Do this for a loved one also if they don’t take it seriously.
