Clinical Overview
Fainting is sudden loss of consciousness followed by sudden recovery. Fainting, or syncope, accounts for six percent of hospital admissions and three percent of emergency room visits. It is caused by a decreased flow of blood to the brain, but the root cause of the decrease in flow can be hard to determine. Standing up too quickly; rigid standing for prolonged periods of time; a shock, such as severe pain or fear; hyperventilation; low blood pressure and irregular heart beat (arrhythmia) can all cause fainting.

Last updated: Jan-01-00