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Warning-sign checks

Fainting: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if someone who fainted:

    • Is not breathing normally or cannot be woken promptly
    • Has chest pain, severe breathlessness, or a pounding or irregular heartbeat
    • Fainted during exercise or while lying down
    • Has weakness on one side, trouble speaking, or a severe new headache
    • Has serious bleeding, black stools, or a significant injury
    • Remains confused or has prolonged or repeated seizure-like movements

    Start CPR if the person is not breathing normally, and follow the emergency operator's instructions.

    If they are breathing but remain unconscious, place them in the recovery position when safe.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical advice after a first unexplained faint, or if you are pregnant, have known heart disease, or have a family history of sudden unexplained death.

    Also get prompt advice if a new medicine or dose change may be involved.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Book a routine appointment if episodes recur, you often feel close to fainting, or the cause remains unclear.

    Discuss any faint that affects driving, work, or daily safety.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Fainting. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.