Diseases

Temporary loss of consciousness due to inadequate blood flow to the brain; also known as fainting.

Persons most commonly affected: All age groups and both sexes.
Organ or part of body involved: Brain
Symptoms and indications: Paleness, nausea, sweating, and then pupil dilation, yawning, deep rapid breathing and rapid heartbeat usually precede it. It lasts from under a minute to several minutes and may be followed by headache, confusion, and a weak feeling. It usually occurs while standing.
Causes and risk factors: It may be caused by many different factors including emotional stress, bradycardia, pooling of blood in the legs due to sudden changes in body position, or heavy sweating. Syncope may occur during violent coughing spells (especially in men) because of rapid changes in blood pressure. It also may result from a number of heart and lung disorders.
Prevention: By definition, syncope is unpredictable and unexpected. Yet, with proper personal care and medical attention, underlying conditions and damage may be detected early or prevented altogether. Some studies suggest that vasovagal syncope can be delayed or prevented by crossing one