What to Do About Fainting
Fainting (or "passing out") is a temporary loss of consciousness that usually happens because not enough blood is going to the brain due to a drop in blood pressure. Blood pressure can drop from dehydration, standing up too quickly, standing or sitting still for a long period, or a sudden fear of something (such as the sight of blood). Fainting also can happen from low blood sugar, especially in people with diabetes or if someone hasn't eaten in a while.
It's important to get medical care to figure out what brought on the fainting episode and help prevent it from happening again.
What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Fainting?
Someone who is about to faint might have:
- dizziness
- lightheadedness
- paleness
- unsteady balance
- vision changes
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- sweating
- nausea or vomiting
What Should I Do if My Child Faints?
Whether your child is about to faint or has fainted:
- Loosen tight clothing.
- Make sure the area is well-ventilated.
- Check that your child is OK, and don't let them stand or walk until they feel much better.
If your child seems about to faint:
- Have them lie down or sit down with their head between their knees.
If your child has fainted:
- Have them lie flat with their feet slightly raised. Don't move your child if you think the fall might have caused an injury.
When Should I Call the Doctor About Fainting?
Call the doctor if your child has any fainting episode.
Get Emergency Medical Care if Your Child:
- fell and may be hurt
- is having trouble breathing
- is having trouble speaking, seeing, or moving
- has chest pain, or a fast or irregular heartbeat
- is having a seizure
- was physically active when it happened
What Can Help Prevent Fainting?
Make sure kids:
- Drink plenty of liquids, especially in hot weather or during physical activity.
- Eat regular meals and snacks to avoid low blood sugar.
- Take breaks often and move around as much as possible when sitting or standing for long periods of time.
- Slowly breathe into a paper bag when they are anxious and breathing too fast.
- Avoid overheated, cramped, or stuffy environments.
