Fainting Treatment

Medically Reviewed by Carol DerSarkissian, MD on March 15, 2024
Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors
1 min read
  • Has blue lips or face
  • An irregular or slow heartbeat
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Is difficult to awaken
  • Acts confused
  • Lay the person flat on their back.
  • Elevate the person's legs to restore blood flow to the brain.
  • Loosen tight clothing.
  • Shake the person vigorously, tap briskly, or yell.
  • If the person doesn't respond, call 911 immediately and start CPR if necessary.
  • If an AED is available, bring it by the person and use it if you have been trained on its use.
  • Is vomiting or bleeding from the mouth
  • Does not wake up within a couple of seconds
  • If the person is alert, give fruit juice, especially if the person has not eaten in more than 6 hours or has diabetes.
  • Stay with the person until they are fully recovered.

See a healthcare provider right away if the person:

  • Hit their head when fainting
  • Faints more than once in a month
  • Is pregnant or has a heart condition or other serious illness
  • Experiences unusual symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, confusion, blurred vision, or difficulty talking