BLACKOUTS

Blackouts, or the sudden loss of consciousness (also called syncope), can happen to some people under stressful circumstances or hot weather. The blood pressure is not adequate to support the blood supply to the brain and may occur with standing up too quickly. Dehydration (low blood volume) increases the chances of fainting. Important heart conditions can also be a cause and need to be urgently ruled out. These include:

• Heart rhythm problems
• Structural problems with the heart, which include narrowing or excessive leakiness of the heart valves and a weakened heart muscle
• Medications, for existing heart conditions such as high blood pressure, or other medical problems