Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS· Last reviewed
Fainting is a brief loss of consciousness from a temporary drop in blood flow to the brain. Most people recover quickly when laid flat with the legs raised — but some faints need a doctor.
2. Raise their legs about 30 cm to help blood return to the brain.
3. Loosen tight clothing and ensure fresh air.
4. As they come round, keep them lying down for a few minutes before sitting up slowly.
5. Give sips of water once fully alert.
6. If they do not come round within a minute, call emergency services and check breathing.
When to see a doctor urgently
Not waking within about a minute — call emergency services and be ready to do CPR
Fainting with chest pain, palpitations, breathlessness or during exercise
A fit, injury from the fall, or repeated faints
Fainting in pregnancy or in an older person
Most faints are harmless — some are not. Lying flat with legs raised usually restores consciousness quickly. Fainting with chest pain, during exercise, or that does not resolve needs urgent assessment. This is not a substitute for medical care.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do when someone faints?
Lay them flat, raise their legs, loosen tight clothing and ensure fresh air. They usually come round within a minute — then let them get up slowly.
When is fainting serious?
If it happens during exercise, with chest pain, palpitations or breathlessness, causes a fit, or the person does not wake quickly — seek urgent care.
Should I splash water on their face?
No need — simply laying them down with legs raised and ensuring air is enough. Give water only once they are fully awake.
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.