What is Fainting, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Fainting (or a vasovagal attack) is a brief loss of consciousness, usually brought on by strong emotion, shock, distress, or pain, and is most likely to occur in warm, crowded places. It is caused by a temporary shortage of blood supply to the brain, and there is also a slowing of the heart rate. A fainting episode acts, in fact, as a type of safety mechanism in that the fall restores the blood supply to the brain by gravity.

Symptoms 

The characteristic loss of consciousness may be preceded by:
• yawning
• sweating
• nausea
• deep, rapid breathing and a weak pulse
• impaired vision
• ringing in the ears
• weakness and confusion

Fainting often occurs as a result of a vasovagal attack, in which overstimulation of the vagus nerve causes slowing of the heartbeat and a fall in blood pressure—which reduces the flow of blood to the brain. These attacks are commonly caused by pain, stress, shock, fear, or in a room with little oxygen. Other causes include prolonged coughing, straining to defecate or urinate, or blowing an instrument.

Fainting may also result from postural hypotension, which may occur when a person stands still for a long time, or suddenly stands up. This is common in the elderly, in sufferers of diabetes, and people taking high blood pressure medication or vasodilator drugs.

TREATMENT 

Ayurveda 
The following Ayurvedic preparations will help to cure the condition: Aswagandharisthta, an oral tonic; Chandanadi thaila, an external oil; Kalyanaka ghritha, oral ghee. 

Chinese Herbalism 
Fresh ginger, cinnamon, twigs, and peppermint would be useful, taken internally as an infusion or decoction, as required.

Traditional Home and Folk Remedies 
Eat fresh or grated apple when you start to feel faint; it is both restorative and calming. Chew dried cloves, which are stimulating and can improve circulation.

Herbalism 
Small sips of ginger tea, or root ginger chewed, will help to restore, and prevent an attack. Rosemary is stimulating, and taken regularly can prevent fainting spells. A hot drink of honey and peppermint will help to

Aromatherapy 
Hold a tissue with a few drops of peppermint or neroli oil, which can help when you feel faint or are in a state of shock. A few drops of rosemary oil, massaged into the temples, prevents loss of consciousness.

Homeopathy 
Constitutional treatment is necessary if the condition is chronic, but specific remedies which can be taken every 5 minutes after or immediately before fainting (when the sensation of fainting begins) include: Veratrum, for fainting caused by anger. Coffea, for fainting brought on by excitement. Ignatia, for fainting caused by an emotional shock or trauma. Aconite, for fainting caused by fright and characterized by tension and pale, clammy skin. Cocculus, for fainting caused by lack of sleep. Gelsemium, when you feel weak and shaky.

Flower Essences 
Rescue Remedy or Emergency Essence placed on the tongue or temples may help to prevent fainting. If you are prone to fainting, carry a bottle at all times and take at the first signs of weakness. Clematis can be taken for the “far away” feeling that comes before an attack, to bring the mind back to reality. prevent loss of consciousness. Drink when you first start to feel faint.