Fainting

A simple faint can occur in an otherwise healthy person as a result of a sudden, brief drop in blood supply to the brain.

Symptoms and signs

• dizziness and unsteadiness
• pale, cold, clammy skin
• slow pulse
• loss of consciousness

Warning

After a simple faint, consciousness returns within a few minutes. If this does not happen, the loss of consciousness may be the result of serious illness, such as stroke, heart attack or sudden, severe internal bleeding (for example, in ruptured ectopic pregnancy). If someone who has apparently fainted does not recover within minutes, seek medical help immediately.

First aid treatment

1. Lay the person down with feet raised.
2. Loosen any tight clothing, and make sure that there is adequate fresh air around the person. Check breathing and pulse.
3. Check for any injury or illness.
4. When consciousness returns, encourage the person to rest for a while before moving.