First Aid Advice - Faints
A faint is normally not considered serious and recovery is typically rapid
Fainting may be a reaction to pain, fear or fright, emotional upset, exhaustion or lack of food. It may also happen after long periods of physical inactivity, especially in warm conditions and/or where the body is in an upright position, where blood can tend to pool in the lower part of the body. When the person faints, the body falls into a vertical position, making it easier for the circulation to restore the blood flow to the brain.
Just before fainting someone will most likely go pale and report dizziness, nausea, ringing in the ears or 'feeling faint'.
Treatment
- Loosen tight clothing
- Lie the patient down and raise the legs
Consciousness should be quickly regained, though the person will be disoriented for a few minutes and will probably require comfort and reassurance
If the person doesn't regain consciousness quickly, seek emergency help
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