
May also be called: Syncope; Swooning; Passing Out
More to Know
In most cases, fainting — or syncope (SIN-ko-pee) — is not a sign of a dangerous problem.
Causes
Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness. It happens when not enough blood reaches the brain due to a fall in blood pressure.
Common causes include dehydration, a quick change in position, standing or sitting still for a long period, becoming overheated, hyperventilation (overbreathing), low blood sugar, anemia, sudden fear of something (for example, the sight of blood), and some heart problems.
Most cases have warning signs (such as a change in vision, dizziness, nausea, or stomach pain) that happen a few seconds before passing out.
Treatment
Fainting in children, especially teens, is common but shouldn't be ignored. Discuss it with your doctor, especially if it happens during exertion (exercising, running, etc.) or happens often.
Keep in Mind
When warning signs of fainting happen, quickly sitting down, dropping the head between the knees, or lying down on the floor may help avoid a loss of consciousness. Then, gradually get up after the dizzy feeling has passed.
All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.
Related Articles
Fainting
Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness. Someone who has fainted will usually recover quickly.
Read MoreFirst Aid: Fainting
Fainting is a loss of consciousness that can be caused by many things. Here's what to do if your child faints or is about to faint.
Read MoreBreath-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 MoreFainting
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