Health Advice

Fainting is when you pass out for a short time.

It's not usually a sign of something serious, but if it happens you should see a GP.

Causes of fainting

There are many reasons why someone might faint.

Causes include:

• standing up too quickly - this could be a sign of low blood pressure
• not eating or drinking enough
• being too hot
• being very upset, angry or in severe pain
• heart problems
• taking drugs or drinking too much alcohol

Symptoms of fainting

Fainting usually happens suddenly. Symptoms can include:

• dizziness
• cold skin and sweating
• feeling warm or hot
• feeling sick
• changes to your vision

See a GP if:

You must tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if you're fainting regularly as it could affect your ability to drive.

Find out how to tell the DVLA about fainting (syncope) or blackouts on GOV.UK

You must not drive if your GP has referred you to a specialist and you are waiting to be assessed.

Things you can do to prevent fainting

If you feel like you're about to faint, try to:

• lie down with your legs raised - if you cannot do this, then sit with your head lowered between your knees
• drink some water
• eat something
• take some deep breaths

If you see someone faint

If you're with someone who has fainted, try to keep calm.

If you can, lay them on their back and raise their legs.

If they\u2019re pregnant (especially if they\u2019re more than 28 weeks pregnant), it\u2019s better to lay them on their side.

Usually, the person who has fainted will wake up within 20 seconds.

Call 999 if: