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Fainting

Fainting is when you pass out for a short time. It's not usually a sign of something serious, but if it happens you should see a GP.

Causes of fainting

There are many reasons why someone might faint.

Causes can include:

  • standing up too quickly – this could be a sign of low blood pressure
  • not eating or drinking enough
  • being too hot
  • being very upset, angry or in severe pain
  • heart problems
  • taking drugs or drinking too much alcohol

Symptoms of fainting

Fainting usually happens suddenly. Symptoms can include:

  • dizziness
  • sweating
  • feeling warm or hot
  • feeling sick
  • changes to your vision

When and where to get medical help

Fainting is not usually serious but you should get medical help, depending on your symptoms.

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:

  • you have fainted

It’s probably nothing serious, but it’s important to get checked by a GP to find out what might have caused it.

Immediate action required: Call 999 if someone:

  • is not breathing
  • cannot be woken up within 1 minute
  • has not fully recovered or has difficulty with speech or movement
  • has chest pain or a pounding, fluttering or irregular heartbeat (heart palpitations)
  • has seriously hurt themselves before or after fainting
  • is shaking or jerking (having a seizure or fit)
  • fainted while exercising
  • fainted while lying down
Information:

Do not drive yourself to A&E.

The person you speak to at 999 will give you advice about what to do.

Information:

You must tell the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if you're fainting regularly as it could affect your ability to drive.

Find out how to tell the DVLA about fainting (syncope) or blackouts on GOV.UK

You must not drive if your GP has referred you to a specialist and you are waiting to be assessed.

Things you can do to prevent fainting

If you feel like you're about to faint, try to:

  • lie down with your legs raised – if you cannot do this, then sit with your head lowered between your knees
  • drink some water
  • cross your legs while standing up or rock up and down on your toes
  • clench your fists

If you see someone faint

If you're with someone who has fainted, try to keep calm.

First, check if they’re responding by gently shaking their shoulders and asking them loudly if they’re OK. If they do not respond, shout for help, and gently tilt back their head and lift their chin to help them breathe more easily.

Check if they’re breathing by listening for at least 10 seconds. If they’re breathing normally, lay them on their back and raise their legs.

If they’re pregnant (especially if they’re more than 28 weeks pregnant), it’s better to lay them on their side.

Usually, the person who has fainted will wake up within 30 seconds.

Page last reviewed: 17 August 2026
Next review due: 17 August 2029