Reasons you might be feeling faint
There are many different reasons you might be feeling faint, and some of these reasons can end up being very serious. On the other hand, others may not even require you to see a doctor. It’s always important to examine all of your symptoms carefully to determine the reason you might be feeling faint.
The exact cause of feeling faint is actually lack of oxygen to the brain, but there are many different reasons your brain might not be getting enough oxygen. If your brain lacks oxygen, it’s because blood flow to the brain is being restricted somehow. This can be caused by a drop in blood pressure or irregular heart beat. Other causes include changes of blood volume or distribution.
Sometimes you might feel faint and remain awake, while other times your brain might lack so much oxygen that you actually pass out. Passing out very briefly and then waking up again almost immediately is called syncope. Having just one episode of fainting is really no big deal, especially if you have an idea of why you fainted. For example, giving blood is a classic cause of feeling faint.
Other common reasons you might be feeling faint are a drop in blood sugar, which could occur if you haven’t eaten in a while. Extreme heat and overexertion can also cause you to faint, as can blood loss or even the sight of blood. A hot shower can also make you feel faint. Sudden changes of position, like standing up suddenly or turning your head to one side can also make you feel very faint. Intense fear has also been known to cause people to faint. Many pregnant women also report feeling faint at some point during their pregnancy.
There are plenty of other health problems that can also cause you to feel faint. If you experience fainting episodes often, then it’s time to get them checked out. Fainting can be a symptom of a stroke or seizure. It can even be a sign of diabetes or epilepsy. Previous heart attacks can cause you to feel faint, as can a heart rate that is too low or too high. Inner ear problems can even cause you to start feeling faint. The most serious kinds of fainting disorders are the heart-related ones.
Some medications can also cause you to start feeling faint. Medications used to treat anxiety or high blood pressure have been shown to cause fainting spells in patients. Even allergy medication can cause you to faint. Alcohol can also cause you to pass out.
There are some things you can do to keep from passing out if you start feeling faint. For example, if it happens often while you’re lying in bed, you might try elevating your head. This is a common technique doctors prescribe to patients of many fainting disorders. Caffeine can also keep you from fainting, although it should be used sparingly and with caution. Increasing your salt intake can also prevent you from passing out.