Fainting and Near Fainting

Topic at a Glance

Fainting (called syncope) is often caused by decreased blood flow to the brain, leading to a temporary loss of consciousness.
Some fainting episodes are harmless, but repeated fainting spells may signal underlying health conditions such as irregular heartbeats, low blood pressure, or nervous system disorders.
Diagnosis and treatment focus on identifying root causes—from vasovagal syncope to orthostatic hypotension—to help prevent fainting and avoid passing out in the future.
At NY Neurology Associates in New York, we specialize in diagnosing and treating fainting spells and related health conditions.

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 recur, 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.

If you’ve experienced fainting episodes, near fainting, or other symptoms such as dizziness, irregular heartbeats, or sudden drops in blood pressure, don’t wait to get answers. Our experienced neurologists can help identify the underlying cause and create a treatment plan to prevent fainting and protect your health.

Call NY Neurology Associates today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward peace of mind.

Below are some of the most common questions about fainting and near fainting.

What causes fainting and near fainting?

Fainting and near fainting are caused by a lack of blood flow to the brain, causing a person to lose consciousness.

Do fainting episodes give any warning signs?

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.

When should someone seek medical care after fainting?

In order to rule out a significant health issue, you should seek medical treatment if you’ve recently fainted for the first time.

How is fainting treated?

Treating fainting means treating the root cause of the fainting episodes.

What should I do if I experience fainting or near fainting?

If you’ve experienced fainting episodes, near fainting, or other symptoms such as dizziness, irregular heartbeats, or sudden drops in blood pressure, don’t wait to get answers.