What to Do When a Child Faints?

Fainting, which is a loss of consciousness caused by a decrease in blood flow to the brain, can occur due to serious health problems or simpler reasons like exhaustion. Dr. Sinan Çomu, a Pediatric Neurologist at Anadolu Health Center, explains that when a person faints and lies down, the blood flow to the brain increases, and consciousness is restored more quickly. “In this way, fainting acts as a sort of safety mechanism for the brain. If a fainting patient or child is kept upright to prevent them from falling, the blood flow becomes even more difficult, potentially leading to symptoms like muscle spasms or eye rolling,” he said. "Therefore, the patient should be placed in a lying position. Furthermore, fainting can be a symptom of anemia, chronic illness, or some serious psychological conditions. When fainting first occurs, it is important for a pediatrician, cardiologist, or pediatric neurologist to evaluate the child." Dr. Sinan Çomu provided important insights on the subject.

Do Not Try to Keep a Fainting Person Upright!

Fainting, which is a loss of consciousness caused by a decrease in blood flow to the brain, can occur due to serious health problems or simpler reasons like exhaustion. Dr. Sinan Çomu, a Pediatric Neurologist at Anadolu Health Center, explains that when a person faints and lies down, the blood flow to the brain increases, and consciousness is restored more quickly. “In this way, fainting acts as a safety mechanism for the brain. If a fainting patient or child is kept upright to prevent them from falling, the blood flow becomes even more difficult, potentially leading to symptoms like muscle spasms or eye rolling,” he said. "Therefore, the patient should be placed in a lying position. Furthermore, fainting can be a symptom of anemia, chronic illness, or some serious psychological conditions. When fainting first occurs, it is important for a pediatrician, cardiologist, or pediatric neurologist to evaluate the child."

Dr. Sinan Çomu provided important insights on the subject.

Fainting in Children: Causes and Symptoms

Sudden blood loss, fear, seeing blood, vagal nerve reflex, excessive excitement, standing for long periods in hot and stuffy environments, sudden movements when hungry, suddenly standing up when the body is weak, urinating while standing, and in rare cases, brushing hair can cause fainting in children. Before fainting, children may experience mild sensations such as nausea, dizziness, or tinnitus (ringing in the ears). These sensations, also known as "presyncope," are followed by loss of consciousness if blood flow to the brain does not improve within seconds. To prevent fainting, it is important to pay attention to a few seconds of dizziness, vision changes, or ringing in the ears before fainting, and sit down briefly before resuming activity. Maintaining a balanced intake of nutrients and fluids is also important for overall health.

What to Do if a Child Faints?

If a child faints, the first step is to lay the child down. If it is suspected that something is in their mouth, turning them to their side is advisable. Elevating their legs and moving them to a well-ventilated, comfortable environment helps restore consciousness more quickly. Refreshing with water or cologne, and offering a sugary drink after consciousness is regained can be helpful. If there is ongoing loss of consciousness, the child should be transported to the nearest healthcare facility, preferably by ambulance. Keeping the child upright in an attempt to prevent them from falling is a mistake that can prolong fainting and lead to seizure-like symptoms.