HealthInfo Canterbury
Fainting is when you briefly lose consciousness. This is also known as a blackout. A funny turn is a short period of feeling light-headed or dizzy.
If you faint or have a funny turn, it's important to get yourself checked by a doctor.
Several things can cause fainting. They include:
If someone is feeling faint:
If someone faints:
Once the person has regained consciousness:
If the person doesn't wake up after one minute, phone 111 and ask for an ambulance. Then follow the advice for helping an unconscious person.
See Ways to prevent fainting & light-headedness.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
More Information about the causes and treatment of vasovagal syncope (the medical term for fainting). The leaflet also suggests ways you can help yourself avoid fainting.
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed March 2019. Last updated August 2019.
Review key: HIFTF-25276