Diseases

Blackout (Fainting, Syncope)

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Fainting, which medical professionals call syncope (pronounced sin-ko-pea), is a temporary loss of consciousness. Fainting is Caused by a temporary loss of the brain's blood supply and can be a sign of a more serious condition. People of any age can faint, but elderly persons may have a serious underlying cause.

SYMPTOMS

Dizziness
Weakness
Sweating
Blurred vision
Seeing spots
Headache
Sensation that the room is moving
Ringing in the ears (see tinnitus)
Nausea
Vomiting

CAUSES

Fear or other emotional trauma severe pain a sudden drop in blood pressure low blood sugar due to diabetes hyperventilation dehydration standing in one position for too long standing up too quickly.