Fainting spells can be caused by:
- Anxiety, fear, or emotional stress.
- Postural hypotension, which is a condition that interferes with your blood pressure levels, so if you stand up too quickly, you begin to feel dizzy and faint. This type of fainting spell is common in seniors.
- A nervous system disease can cause fainting spells too, because the nervous system regulates your body’s involuntary functions.
- Other diseases like diabetes and malnutrition—anything that affects your blood pressure—can cause fainting spells.
- Heart or blood vessel problems, that restrict the ability of blood flow to the brain, will cause fainting spells.
PLUS: How hot weather can make you faint
Researchers have recently discovered that your fainting spells might be genetic. According to evaluations of 44 families with a history of fainting spells, the researchers found a strong genetic link for fainting spells.
If you’re more prone to developing fainting spells—if you have any of those conditions listed above or if it runs in your family—then you should make sure to always stay hydrated, to consume enough salt (to keep your blood pressure at a normal level), and to stand up slowly after lying down for a long period of time.
It’s important to get your heart checked to make sure that your fainting spells are not an indication of anything else. In this case, I recommend keeping a record of your fainting spells, what they’re triggered by, and when they occur. Next time you go for a regular check-up, let your doctor know about your fainting spells.
Source(s) for Today’s Article:
Klein, K., et al., “Autosomal dominant vasovagal syncope,” Neurology. April 16, 2013; 80(16): 1485-1493
“Unexplained fainting,” Medtronic web site; http://www.medtronic.com/patients/fainting/treatment/index.htm, last accessed April 15, 2013.
“Understanding fainting—the basics,” WebMD web site, http://www.webmd.com/brain/understanding-fainting-basics, last accessed April 15, 2013.