Fainting (medically known as syncope) is a sudden, brief loss of consciousness usually resulting in a fall. The term syncope helps to distinguish fainting from other causes of brief unconsciousness, such as seizures (fits) or concussion (injury to the brain). The brain relies on oxygen in the blood to function properly. Fainting occurs when there is interruption to the brain's blood supply or reduced oxygen supply. Fainting can be a sign of a serious problem. Seek diagnosis for the cause of fainting.
Attribution: Straight Talk Foundation
See also:
- Causes of fainting
- What to do if one is going to faint
- Fainting as sign of a serious problem
- Symptoms of fainting
- Those at risk of fainting
- First aid for fainting