Fainting
Alternate Names : Passing Out, Syncope, Syncopal Episode
What are the treatments for the condition?
First aid for a person who has fainted includes the following steps:
Check for signs of circulation, such as normal breathing, coughing, or
movement in response to stimulation.
Contact the emergency medical
system immediately if these signs are absent.
Start cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR if the person stops breathing.
If the person has signs of circulation, he or she has probably fainted. The
individual should be left on the ground and both legs should be elevated. This
helps improve blood flow to the brain. The person should remain lying down for
at least 10 minutes, even if he or she wakes up. After that, he or she should
get up slowly and sit in a chair for a few minutes. The person should have help
when trying to stand up. Someone who gets up too fast and without help may
faint again.
Most of the time, no further treatment is needed for fainting. If the person faints repeatedly or has other symptoms, more treatment may be needed. Following are some of the common treatments:
blood transfusions for anemia
fluids for dehydration
medications for
arrhythmias
medications to raise the blood pressure
oxygen
stopping medications that are causing low
blood pressure
What are the side effects of the treatments?
All medications have possible side effects. These may include allergic reactions, stomach upset, and
headaches. Surgery carries a
risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic
reactions to anesthesia. Blood transfusions may cause allergic reactions or infections.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Those who have simple fainting usually need no further monitoring or treatment.
Those who have heart disease may need
ongoing treatment for many years. Most people are able to return to normal
activities after treatment. Those with frequent fainting may need to avoid
certain activities, such as climbing ladders or driving.
How is the condition monitored?
Specific monitoring depends on the underlying cause of the fainting. It may
range from none at all to intense monitoring and follow-up. Any new or
worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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