What are the causes of fainting?
Jan 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
In general, syncope can be caused by extreme fatigue, emotional fluctuations, hypoglycemia, arrhythmia, transient ischemic attack (TIA), and other factors. Symptomatic management may involve general treatment and medication. It is recommended in daily life to maintain a regular作息 (routine/schedule), slow down movements when standing up or getting out of bed, and prevent sudden postural changes that may lead to blood pressure fluctuations and trigger syncope.
In general situations, fainting can be caused by extreme fatigue, emotional fluctuations, hypoglycemia, arrhythmia, transient ischemic attack (TIA), and other similar reasons. Symptomatic treatment through general therapy or medication may be necessary. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention and undergo appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Extreme Fatigue
In a state of extreme fatigue, bodily functions decline, including those of the cardiovascular and nervous systems, which may lead to insufficient blood supply to the brain and cause fainting. Symptoms may include pale complexion, weak limbs, and cold sweats. It is recommended to maintain adequate sleep and rest, avoid overexertion, and promptly replenish nutrients and fluids.
2. Emotional Fluctuations
Significant emotional fluctuations can cause vascular dysfunction, affecting the normal function of the cardiovascular system and resulting in insufficient blood supply to the brain. Symptoms may include palpitations, shortness of breath, and numbness in the limbs. Psychological counseling and emotional regulation, such as deep breathing and relaxation exercises, are recommended.
3. Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia mainly occurs due to inadequate food intake or excessive blood sugar reduction. It can lead to insufficient energy supply to the brain, causing fainting, often accompanied by hunger, sweating, trembling, and anxiety. It is recommended to use medications such as glucose sodium chloride injection, hydrocortisone tablets, and mannitol injection under a doctor's guidance.
4. Arrhythmia
Abnormal cardiac electrophysiology or cardiovascular diseases may trigger arrhythmias. Arrhythmias can impair the heart's contraction and relaxation functions, reducing cardiac output and leading to insufficient blood supply to the brain. Symptoms may include palpitations, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as quinidine sulfate tablets, procainamide hydrochloride tablets, and verapamil hydrochloride tablets for treatment.
5. Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
A TIA is primarily caused by localized cerebral ischemia due to cerebral atherosclerosis or microembolism. A TIA can reduce local cerebral blood flow, impairing brain function and causing fainting. It may also present with neurological deficits such as blurred vision, slurred speech, and limb weakness. It is recommended to use medications such as enteric-coated aspirin tablets, clopidogrel tablets, and warfarin sodium tablets under medical supervision to prevent thrombosis.
In daily life, it is advised to maintain a regular routine, avoid staying up late and excessive fatigue, and allow the body sufficient recovery time. Additionally, slow down movements when getting up or rising from lying down to prevent sudden postural changes that could lead to blood pressure fluctuations and subsequent fainting.
