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Fainting
Alternate Names : Lightheadedness - Fainting, Passed Out, Syncope, Vasovagal
Definition
Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness due to a drop in blood flow to the brain. The episode is brief (lasting less than a couple of minutes) and is followed by rapid and complete recovery. You may feel lightheaded or dizzy before fainting.
A longer, deeper state of unconsciousness is often called a coma.
Overview & Considerations
When you faint, you not only experience loss of consciousness, but also loss or muscle tone and paleness in your face. You may also feel weak or nauseated just prior to fainting and have the sense that surrounding noises are fading into the background.
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Fainting: Overview & Considerations
• Fainting: Common Causes
• Fainting: Home Care & Treatment
• Call your Health Care Provider if
• What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Dehydration
Tests & Exams
• Blood Pressure
• Chest X-Ray
• ECG
• Echocardiogram
• EEG
• Holter Monitor (24h)
Other Topics
• Bleeding
• Consciousness - Decreased
• Dizziness
• Rapid Deep Breathing (Hyperventilation)
• Unconsciousness - First Aid
Review Date : 8/12/2003
Reviewed By : Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Bridget Martell, M.D., Department of Internal Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (05/26/2003).
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