health

Symptoms
Some people simply lose consciousness and slump down
without warning. However, many people feel dizzy, lightheaded, or sick
to their stomach just before they faint. They may become sweaty and
pale, and they may have a graying out of vision. By definition, a faint
does not last long. Falling down locates the head at the same level as the
heart. This position helps restore blood flow to the brain. The person
soon regains consciousness, usually within a minute or so.

Treatment
A person who is feeling faint should lie down immediately
and not try to stand or walk. If the person who faints does not regain consciousness
within a minute or two, someone must get emergency medical
help for that person. While awaiting emergency help, adult bystanders
probably will elevate the legs of the person who has fainted; loosen belts,
collars, or tight clothing; and check that the person’s airway remains
open, as people who faint may vomit as well. They will not move the
person who has fainted until medical help arrives, because the fall may
have injured the person.
The person who has fainted probably will regain consciousness quickly
but may continue to feel a bit weak for a little while. To prevent fainting
again, the person should continue lying down for a few minutes.
Even when people recover promptly, they should contact their doctors
about a first fainting attack, about repeated fainting spells, or about other
possible symptoms, including irregular heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of
breath, blurred vision, confusion, or trouble talking.