How to Faint Safely

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Fainting, or syncope, can be a scary experience. It is often the result of poor circulation to the brain, which then causes you to lose consciousness and pass out. [1] However, you can take certain precautions to make sure that you are safe if you faint. Watch carefully for any initial signs, such as feeling dizzy. Then, sit or lie down right away. Get help from others and take your time recovering after an episode. Working with your doctor to determine a treatment plan will help as well. [2]

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Taking Action During the Initial Symptoms

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  1. You might feel a slight or severe dizzy spell immediately before you faint. This is a strong warning sign that your circulation system is not functioning normally. As soon as you start to feel dizzy at all, stop what you are doing and try to get lower to the ground via sitting or lying down. [3]
  2. Your senses will most likely be affected in the minutes right before you faint. You may experience tunnel vision or feel as if your vision is collapsing into one small tunnel to look through. You may see spots or blurs. Your ears might start to ring or feel as if they are giving off a slight buzz. [4]
    • Other major symptoms include a clammy and pale face, numbness in your face and exterior limbs, feelings of severe anxiety, or sudden onset of nausea or stomach pains.
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  3. When you experience any symptoms related to fainting, the goal is to get as low as possible as quickly as you can. Many people receive serious injuries not from fainting, but from falling to the ground due to loss of consciousness. It is best to lie down on your back or side, but if that is not an option, sit down. [5]
    • When you lie down, it puts your head at roughly the same level as your heart, encouraging circulation to be restored and your blood to head back to your brain more easily. If you are pregnant, lie down on your left side to lessen the burden on your heart. [6]
    • If the area is crowded, for example, and it is only safe to sit down, that can work as well. For maximum benefit, hang your head between your legs. [7] This will encourage the blood to follow gravity and head back down into your brain.
  4. Being in a hot, crowded area with little ventilation can trigger fainting. [8] If you are in a crowded area, it is probably best to touch a wall and slowly lean against it. If needed, you may slide yourself slowly down the wall. This will prevent you from being trampled while you are on the ground. Getting away from the crowd might also lower your temperature and make breathing easier.
    • You can also make an effort to buckle your knees. This will have the effect of lowering you to the ground and will lessen your final fall. [9]
  5. If you are on the stairs and the symptoms start to appear, move from the inner rail to the outer one connected to a wall. Sit down on a stair. If you are close to a landing, try to scoot down on your behind to it where you can then safely lie down. The key is to get to a safe place to sit or lie down as quickly (and safely) as you can. [10]
    • If you feel yourself going down before you can sit, try your best to maintain a firm grip on the rail. It can help to guide you to the floor even as you lose consciousness. [11] If nothing else, draping your body partially over the outer rail (against the wall) will slow the course of your fall and turn it into a slide down.
  6. Call out for assistance using your voice. If your voice isn’t working properly, wave your hands in the air and mouth out the word “help” repeatedly. Be careful trying to walk towards someone to get help, as you could go down mid-step. [12]
    • If you see someone, you might say, “Help! I’m about to pass out!” Or, “Can you help me? I think I’m going to faint.” Don’t be afraid to approach strangers who may be able to help you stay safe.
    • If you are lucky and someone helps you, they should start by assisting you to the floor if you are not there already. If you do fall and injure yourself, they should apply first aid to the bleeding area or injury and call for medical assistance. [13]
    • The person assisting should also loosen any tight clothing that could be constricting blood flow to your head, such as tight neckties or collars. [14] They will need to make sure your airway is clear and stays that way. It may be necessary to tilt you to the side if you begin vomiting. They should check for signs that you are breathing properly, even when unconscious. If anything looks concerning, they should dial for emergency assistance immediately and wait until help arrives. [15]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Recovering Immediately After an Episode

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  1. Don’t be in a rush to get up after a fainting spell. Your body and mind need time to recover. Stay in your current position on the ground for at least 10-15 minutes. If you get up too soon, you risk triggering another episode. [16]
  2. Simple fainting episodes are usually resolved by rapidly elevating the person’s feet and legs. While you are on the ground, see if it is possible to elevate your feet at all. Making it so that they are higher than your head is best, but any elevation will help. [17] If you are lying down, see if you (or your helper) can stuff a jacket under your feet. This will improve the blood flow to your head and speed up the healing process. [18]
  3. While you are waiting to stand again, inhale a series of deep, calming breaths. [19] Fill your lungs to capacity by breathing through your nose and then slowly release the air via your mouth. If you are still in a stuffy or hot area, you will want to carefully monitor your breathing until you can safely walk to a better space.
  4. One possible cause of fainting is dehydration. [20] So, to prevent another episode, you will want to drink lots of water immediately after standing and for the remainder of the day. [21] Be very wary of drinking alcohol after a fainting spell, as it will dehydrate you even more and make the problem worse. [22]
  5. Eating more frequently and avoiding skipping meals may help prevent you from fainting. Try eating five to six small meals per day instead of two or three large meals. [23] Also try eating a snack when you first feel symptoms to avoid fully fainting. [24]
  6. Alcohol can increase your risk of fainting, so it is best to avoid it if you are prone to fainting. [25] If you do drink, make sure that you only drink in moderation, which is no more than one drink per day for women of all ages and men over 65, and no more than two drinks per day for men under 65. [26]
  7. Some medications may cause dizziness and fainting. [27] Consult your medical provider about which medications may cause these symptoms. Some blood pressure medications may even be taken at bedtime to prevent fainting, but consult your healthcare provider about your medication schedule before changing it first. [28]
  8. Recognize that your body needs time to recover and give yourself a bit of a break for the remainder of the day. Make sure to walk slowly and carefully. It is probably best to avoid strenuous exercise for the next 24-48 hours. [29] Try to minimize your stress by putting off important tasks until tomorrow.
    • Do something that you know relaxes you, such as going home and taking a bubble bath. Or, sitting on the couch and watching a bit of football.
  9. If you wake from the faint and still feel other symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, you or your caretaker should immediately call for emergency medical help. These are signs that you may have a more serious health condition, and you will most likely need to be evaluated at the hospital. [30]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Protecting Yourself in the Future

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  1. Whether this is your first episode or one in a series, it is a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor to talk over what you experienced. They will decide if any additional action is necessary, and this will give you peace of mind moving forward. They might also ask you to watch for particular warning signs, in addition to fainting, such as increased thirst. [31]
    • Your doctor may order tests such as a blood sugar draw, a general blood test to check for anemia and nutrient levels, and an EKG (to scan for heart issues). These are all fairly standard diagnostic tools. [32]
    • Your doctor may also place restrictions on your behaviors until the cause of fainting has been established and treated. They may request that you limit your driving and avoid operating any kind of heavy or complex machinery. [33]
    • It is helpful if you can bring a statement or brief note from someone who witnessed you faint. After all, you were unconscious for part of this time, and this person can fill in the blanks regarding what happened to you. [34]
  2. There is a possibility that your doctor will prescribe medication to you to treat and prevent future fainting episodes. These medications usually address the underlying cause of the fainting. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and fludrocortisone acetate (a low blood pressure medication) may also be recommended. [35]
    • Make sure to follow the exact directions on any medication that you receive. If you fail to do so, you run the risk of your fainting spells getting worse.
  3. This is good advice in general, but it is especially helpful if you’ve fainted in the past. Carry small snacks with you that are high in sugar and salt. For example, drink some juice or eat some mixed nuts or chips. This will help to prevent your blood sugar from dropping too low, a common cause of fainting. [36]
  4. Focus on substances that will improve circulation and heart health overall. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements are good in that they minimize inflammation, allowing your blood to circulate more efficiently. [37] You can also focus on herbal remedies, such as green tea, also praised for its anti-inflammatory properties. [38]
    • Carefully discuss all herbs and supplements with your doctor to ensure that they do not interfere with your current medications or possess problematic side effects.
    • Note that herbs and supplements are not regulated by the FDA and should not be used as a substitute for FDA-approved medication or medical care offered by a qualified healthcare professional. While supplements may support your health, they are unlikely to prevent fainting on their own.
  5. You’ve probably seen these before, and they are easy to order from your doctor or even online. A medical ID, certificate, or card includes your name, medical status, emergency contact information, and known allergens. This is an especially good idea if you suffer from frequent fainting episodes and have other underlying conditions that may affect your treatment, like diabetes. [39]
  6. Fainting can also result from emotional events or stress. Learn to control your body’s reaction by practicing deep breathing techniques. Enroll in a yoga or meditation class to learn the methods that are best suited for you. Slow, controlled, deep breaths can help prevent fainting. Some even suggest hypnosis as a way to lower overall stress levels and regulate blood pressure. [40]
  7. These can help with circulation by improving blood flow from your legs back up to your heart and brain. [41] However, avoid wearing girdles, garters, or other constricting garments that may decrease venous return.
  8. Rising too quickly from a seated or lying position may lead to fainting. Try to transition from one position to another slowly to help prevent fainting. [42]
    • For example, sit up on the edge of the bed in the morning before standing up.
  9. Make a habit of periodically flexing your leg muscles or wiggling your toes when standing or sitting for periods of time. This will help to improve your circulation, allowing your heart to work a bit less. Even swaying slightly from side to side will help when standing. [43]
  10. Each time you faint, consider the underlying causes in consultation with your doctor. You may need to avoid seeing blood, or perhaps overheating is the issue. Standing for long periods might be a problem for you. Or, perhaps you get overwhelmed with fear and pass out. When you know what triggers your fainting, you can actively work to avoid those situations. [45]
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      Tips

      • There are no routine tests that are recommended specifically for someone with fainting episodes. However, your medical provider may order an electrocardiogram to rule out any problems with your heart, such as arrhythmias.
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      • Your medical provider also may order fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin, electrolytes, and thyroid function tests based on your unique situation.
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      • If you are at school, alert your teacher that you’re about to faint. They will be able to call the nurse.
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      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • To assist someone who is fainting, gently guide their fall only if close by, then monitor breathing till help arrives. If unconscious over a minute, attempt CPR and call emergency services, continuing assistance until medical personnel take over.
      • When presyncopal symptoms strike unexpectedly, like tunneling vision or muffled hearing, immediately tell a friend or teacher, "I need to sit down now." Calmly yet firmly stating your needs ensures you get help lowering yourself to safety.
      • After an episode, indulge in self-care for the remainder of the day. Extra rest, fluids and salt intake will help stabilize you. And don't worry about missed responsibilities — simply focus fully on regaining strength.
      • Dehydration and overheating trigger many fainting episodes. During physical exertion like sports, stop and rest if feeling lightheaded. Drink water or sports drinks and move to shade. Don't tough it out.
      • If alone when on the verge of fainting, try moving to a soft surface like a bed or sofa. Prop up your feet with pillows since elevating legs improves circulation to the brain, speeding recovery.
      • Sudden nausea with visual disruptions like flashing lights often precedes losing consciousness. At first sign, immediately sit or lie down wherever possible to avoid injury from falling.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/When-the-lights-suddenly-go-out
      2. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/When-the-lights-suddenly-go-out
      3. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/fainting.html
      4. ↑ https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fainting
      5. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/fainting/
      6. ↑ https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/dizziness-and-fainting-pregnancy/
      7. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/fainting/
      8. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/fainting.html
      9. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-fall-without-injury
      1. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/fainting/
      2. ↑ https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dizziness
      3. ↑ https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/5-things-to-know-about-fainting-the-hearts-role-and-when-it-may-signal-serious-condition/
      4. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-fainting/basics/art-20056606
      5. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003092.htm
      6. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003092.htm
      7. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003092.htm
      8. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003092.htm
      9. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/fainting.html
      10. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/fainting/
      11. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003092.htm
      12. ↑ https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fainting
      13. ↑ https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/568848
      14. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17536-syncope
      15. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/fainting/
      16. ↑ https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/fainting/
      17. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol/art-20044551
      18. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003092.htm
      19. ↑ https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-what-time-is-best-for-blood-pressure-medication/
      20. ↑ https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/F_I/Fainting
      21. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/fainting.html
      22. ↑ https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/symptoms-of-heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/fainting
      23. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/fainting.html
      24. ↑ https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/symptoms-of-heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/fainting#Treatment_v718627
      25. ↑ https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/symptoms-of-heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/fainting
      26. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vasovagal-syncope/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350531
      27. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/When-the-lights-suddenly-go-out
      28. ↑ https://www.bhf.org.uk/research-projects/investigationof-the-mechanisms-underlying-the-vasodilator-effects-of-the-n3-pufas-fish-oils
      29. ↑ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27634207/
      30. ↑ https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003092.htm
      31. ↑ https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/preventing-falls/fear-and-anxiety-about-falling/relaxation-techniques-to-help-prevent-falls/
      32. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/When-the-lights-suddenly-go-out
      33. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/fainting.html
      34. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/fainting.html
      35. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/family-health-guide/when-the-lights-suddenly-go-out
      36. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vasovagal-syncope/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350531

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