Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness that happens when there isn't enough blood going to the brain because of a drop in blood pressure. Blood pressure can drop from dehydration, a quick change in position, standing or sitting still for a long period, or a sudden fear of something (such as the sight of blood). It's important to get medical care to figure out what brought on the fainting episode and help prevent it from happening again. Signs and Symptoms Someone who is about to faint might have: dizziness lightheadedness paleness unsteady balance vision changes fast or irregular heartbeat sweating nausea or vomiting What to Do Whether your child is about to faint or already fainted: loosen tight clothing, make sure the area is well-ventilated, wipe your child's face with a cool washcloth, and don't let him or her stand or walk until feeling much better. If your child seems about to faint: Have him or her lie down or sit down with the head between the knees. If your child has fainted: Have him or her lie flat with feet slightly elevated. Don't move your child if you think the fall might have caused an injury. Contact your child's doctor about any fainting episode. Get Emergency Medical Care if Your Child: fell and may be hurt is having trouble speaking, seeing, or moving has chest pain, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat is having a seizure was physically active when it happened Think Prevention! Make sure kids: drink plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather or during physical activity take frequent breaks and move around as much as possible when sitting or standing for long periods of time slowly breathe into a paper bag when they are anxious and breathing too fast avoid overheated, cramped, or stuffy environments Back to Articles Related Articles Is It Normal to Feel Sick During a Blood Draw? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Is It Normal for Children to Hold Their Breath? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More What Is Hypoglycemia? Lots of people wonder if they have hypoglycemia, but the condition is not common in teens. Get the facts on hypoglycemia. Read More Breath-Holding Spells Kids who have these spells hold their breath until they pass out. Although upsetting to watch, the spells are not harmful and do not pose any serious, long-term health risks. Read More Fainting Fainting is pretty common in teens. The good news is that most of the time it's not a sign of something serious. Read More First Aid: Falls Although most result in mild bumps and bruises, some falls can cause serious injuries that need medical attention. Read More A to Z Symptom: Fainting In most cases, fainting is not a sign of a dangerous problem, but should still be discussed with a doctor. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.