Health Tip: Things That May Trigger Fainting

When there's a drop in blood flow to the brain

April 13, 2010 RSS Feed Print

(HealthDay News) -- Fainting describes a brief loss of consciousness due to a drop in blood flow to the brain.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine says the following triggers may cause fainting:

The sudden onset of extreme distress or fear.
Being in severe pain.
Straining to have a bowel movement.
Standing up for a long period.
Excessive and forceful coughing.
A rapid drop in blood pressure, which can be triggered by factors including dehydration, some medications, bleeding or standing up too quickly.
Abusing drugs or alcohol.
Having low blood sugar.
Having a stroke or heart attack.