Health Tip: If Someone Faints

Here's what to do

Related Encyclopedia • Acne • Alagille Syndrome • Appendicitis • Asthma in Children More... Related Animations • Dental Cavities More... Related Healthscout Videos What are your hopes for the future of research? Video Interview: Dr. Atul Gawande on Why the Act of Writing is Essential  Video Interview: Dr. Atul Gawande on the Benefits of Admitting Medical Errors Video Interview: Dr. Atul Gawande on Candor and Medical Errors More... Related Drug Information • Adderal XR • Concerta • Strattera More... Related News Articles • Campaign Targets Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Kids • Health Tip: Protect Your Child From Flu • Health Tip: Giving Pain Medication to Your Child • Drug Combo Tied to Kidney Risk With Some Cardiac Surgeries More...

Text Continues Below

---

(HealthDay News) -- Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness, typically caused by a lack of blood flow to the brain. If you see someone faint, the U.S. National Library of Medicine recommends that you:

• Check to be sure the person is still breathing, is not injured or bleeding, and has regained consciousness quickly. If not, call 911 immediately.
• Loosen clothing around the person's neck.
• Have the person lie down in a cool, quiet place for at least 10 to 15 minutes after regaining consciousness, or if he can't lie down, have him sit with his head below the shoulders, between his knees.
• Prop up the person's feet about a foot above the level of the heart.
• If the person has vomited, turn him on his side to prevent choking.

-- Diana Kohnle