Fainting (cont.)
What is the treatment for fainting (syncope)?
Fainting is not normal, although the cause may not be serious. When in doubt,
calling 911, activating the emergency medical system, and seeking medical care
is appropriate.
If the episode is short-lived and the patient returns to normal function with
no evidence of injury, it may be appropriate to contact the primary care
provider to discuss care options.
If the patient has fallen it is important to protect
them from further harm, and assessing heart beat and breathing is an important first step. If
needed, bystander CPR should be initiated.
In the ambulance, hospital, or doctor's office, because the potential
life-threatening causes of syncope need to be initially considered; often a
patient who complains of syncope will be placed on a heart monitor, have an
intravenous line
placed, and oxygen supplied. A fingerstick blood sugar may be
checked to look for hypoglycemia (low blood
sugar).
Further treatment will be tailored to the specific cause of the fainting or syncope based
upon the patient's evaluation.
Can fainting (syncope) be prevented?
Depending upon the cause, there may be opportunity to prevent fainting
spells. For example:
- Patients who have had a vasovagal episode may be aware of the warning signs
and be able to sit or lie down before passing out and avert the fainting
episode.
- For older patients with orthostatic hypotension, waiting for a second after
changing positions may be all that is needed to allow the body's reflexes to
react.
- Adequate fluid intake may be enough to prevent dehydration as the cause for
syncope.
Next: Fainting (Syncope) At A Glance »
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