Do this now
- Lay them flat on their back. Check that they are breathing.
- Raise their legs about 12 inches (30 cm) if they aren’t injured.
- Loosen tight clothing like belts and collars.
- Call 911 if they don’t wake up within about 1 minute. If they aren’t breathing normally, start CPR.
- Have them stay lying down for a while after they wake up, then sit up slowly before standing.
Call 911 if:
- The person doesn’t wake up within about 1 minute, or isn’t breathing normally
- They have chest pain, a pounding or irregular heartbeat, or trouble breathing
- They fainted during exercise, or for no clear reason
- They have trouble speaking or seeing, weakness on one side, confusion, or a seizure
- They were hurt in the fall, especially if they hit their head
- They are pregnant, have diabetes, or have a heart condition
If you feel like you’re going to faint
Warning signs include feeling lightheaded, sweaty, sick to your stomach, or tunnel vision.
- Lie down or sit down right away so you don’t fall.
- Cross your legs and squeeze your leg muscles, or squeeze your hands together. This can help push blood back to your brain.
- Get up slowly once you feel better.
Common causes
Fainting is often caused by standing too long, getting up too fast, heat, not drinking enough, skipping meals, pain, or strong emotions (like seeing blood). Sometimes it’s caused by a heart problem or another medical condition.
After fainting
Anyone who faints for the first time, faints more than once, or isn’t sure why they fainted should see a health care provider. Give them water or a snack once they are fully awake and can swallow.