Fainting occurs when there is Insufficient oxygen reaching the brain. This causes a sudden and temporary loss of consciousness.
Causes of Fainting
Numerous causes may produce fainting. These include a sudden decrease in blood flow to the brain, resulting from heartbeat abnormalities or diseases that limit the amount of blood that the heart pumps. Prolonged straining, such as from severe coughing or attempted bowel movements when constipated, can reduce blood flow to the heart and lead to fainting. Sudden emotional stress can lead to neurological output that produces fainting by slowing the heart and output of the heart. Rapidly rising from sitting or lying down, especially in chronically ill or bed ridden patients, can produce orthostatic hypotension. This leads to fainting. Hypoglycemia, severe pain and heart attack can all produce temporary loss of consciousness or fainting.
Signs and Symptoms of Fainting
Symptoms of fainting include sudden light-headedness, general weakness and falling. Blurred vision, nausea, pallor and sweating frequently occur. There is usually a rapid heart beat and rapid breathing. In the absence of heartbeat or breathing, a cardiac arrest may be initially mistaken for fainting.
advertisement
Find more information
Advertisement
Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
Disclaimer
The information contained on this site is for the sole purpose of
being informative. This information is not and should not be used or relied upon as medical
advice. Always seek the advice of your physician, nurse
Or other qualified health care provider before you undergo any treatment or
for answers to any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
If you believe you have a medical emergency, please discontinue use
of MyElectronicMD and call 911 now.
Nothing contained on or provided through the service is intended to be or is
to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment.
Your use of this site is subject to certain terms and conditions.
