Fainting, or the loss of consciousness can occur for a number of reasons. Thankfully, fainting is not typically an indication of a major health concern. However, fainting and near fainting are worrisome enough to generate thousands of trips to the emergency room every year.
Fainting Explained
Fainting and near fainting are caused by a lack of blood flow to the brain, causing a person to lose consciousness. The loss of consciousness is typically short in duration and has a quick recovery. If a person is standing when the fainting episode occurs, they will typically fall down. Once they are on the ground, the blood flow to the brain is restored and the person regains consciousness.
Symptoms of Fainting
Generally speaking, there is little or no warning before a person faints. Some individuals, particularly those who experience regular fainting spells, may feel dizzy or lightheaded before they faint. This indication provides some warning before losing consciousness, often allowing them to get into a safe position.
In order to rule out a significant health issue, you should seek medical treatment if you've recently fainted for the first time. Individuals with heart conditions or who experience any of the symptoms below should also seek medical care:
• Feelings of numbness
• Tingling sensations, particularly on one side of the body
• Problems talking or the inability to think clearly
• Confusion
• Paralysis or the inability to move arms and or legs
Treating Fainting
After a fainting spell, diagnostic tests will be performed in order to identify the root cause of the issue. Often, there is no clear medical cause and as long as the fainting does not reoccur, there is no need for medical treatment. However, if the fainting happens regularly, tests will be done to identify the cause. Treating fainting means treating the root cause of the fainting episodes.
For an appointment to discuss your issues with fainting and near fainting, contact the neurology specialists at NY Neurology Associates today.