There are several possible reasons why an elderly person might suddenly collapse.

Oct 12, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
A sudden fainting in elderly individuals may be caused by cerebrovascular diseases, heart conditions, or micturition syncope. In cerebrovascular diseases, sudden fainting can result from transient cerebral ischemia. If the elderly person has a history of heart disease, sudden fainting might be due to arrhythmia or myocardial ischemia. Micturition syncope occurs when older adults hold urine for prolonged periods, and sudden urination leads to a drop in blood pressure.

  In general, sudden fainting in elderly individuals may be caused by cerebrovascular diseases, cardiac conditions, or micturition syncope.

  1. Cerebrovascular disease: If an elderly person has cerebrovascular disease, sudden fainting may result from transient cerebral ischemia or cerebral infarction, leading to impaired brain function and loss of consciousness. In such cases, immediate hospitalization is necessary for CT and MRI examinations, followed by treatment under medical supervision to restore consciousness.

  2. Cardiac disease: For elderly individuals with a history of heart disease, sudden fainting may be due to arrhythmia or myocardial ischemia, causing interruption of blood supply to the brain and resulting in loss of consciousness. Once fainting occurs, emergency services (120) should be called immediately, and the patient must be transported to the hospital without delay. The patient should not be moved carelessly to avoid worsening the condition.

  3. Micturition syncope: In older adults, prolonged urine retention followed by sudden urination can lead to a drop in blood pressure and reflex dysfunction of the nervous system, resulting in fainting. In such cases, the patient should be laid flat and acupressure applied to the philtrum (renzhong point) to help regain consciousness. Additionally, regular physical exercise should be incorporated into daily life to improve overall health and prevent excessive fatigue.

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