Fainting Facts

Anyone who has fainted will know that the temporary loss of consciousness which is experienced at the time can be dramatic and sudden with very little warning. For all its suddenness and its disorientating effects, fainting is actually a very common occurrence and affects many people.

People faint when the flow of oxygen to the brain has been interrupted and a sudden shock or trauma could easily be the reason for this, very occasionally if there are underlying problems with the heart, fainting can occur but this is a less likely scenario. Statistics depict that 23% of those over the age of 70 tend to be more prone to fainting.

Usually before fainting, some warning symptoms are experienced and these can range from:

• Ears ringing
• Sweat
• Disorientation
• Nausea
• Spots before the eyes
• Feeling of weakness

These feelings may seem to last a long time but in reality they only last a few seconds and then collapse is imminent. After collapsing, because the heart and head will usually be on the same level, the blood can be pushed up to the brain with ease and consciousness should then return quite quickly.

There are a few different reasons why we faint:

• Neurocardiogenic syncope - this is the most common type of fainting and it occurs where a temporary malfunction prevents the flow of blood to the brain
• Occupational syncope - this could be linked to a bodily function such as sneezing, coughing or some strenuous activity
• Orthostatic hypotension - this happens due to standing up too quickly which again interrupts the flow of blood to the brain

Although little can be done to stop fainting if an unexpected trauma occurs, there are some preventative measures that can be taken to avoid fainting and to stop the anxiety attacks that can occur after fainting such as:

Preparation of Facts

Sometimes fainting can occur through receiving shocks or being ill prepared for news, whilst it is difficult to change this occurrence, preparing to acknowledge a situation may help to keep the body functioning normally.

Hydration

Avoid becoming dehydrated as this can cause the blood pressure to drop and will increase the chance of fainting.

Meditation

Meditation can help to relax the body completely and allows the body to regain its normal functions. It can also help the practitioner to regain control over any fears regarding the sudden fainting episode. Many people fear the loss of control when they lost consciousness.

Sudden Movement

Because some sudden movements such as standing up too quickly can restrict the blood flow to the brain, it can be wise to not move as quickly and this will eliminate one risk.