Fainting is a brief loss of consciousness usually caused by a decrease in blood supply to the brain. If you feel you may be about to faint, lie down (preferably) or bend over with your head at knee level. Even better, lie down with your feet and torso elevated, with your head lower than your heart. If you are attending to someone who has already passed out and is lying down, leave them lying but elevate their feet 8 to 12 inches (20.3 to 30.5 cm) and try to position their head below heart level, turning it to the side. Loosen tight clothing.
Cures from Grandma’s Kitchen
Use a simple grated onion poultice on damaged fingers or toes to reduce pain and inflammation. Use enough to cover the area and leave on for 10 to 20 minutes.
You can also pinch the fleshy part between the upper lip and nose using a slightly upward pressure, which is an important acupressure point known as GV 26 that increases alertness. Applying cold moist towels to the neck and face can help as well. Do not give anyone who is unconscious anything to eat or drink, but when they are conscious, sips of cool water are fine. Be sure to allow access to fresh air, which may be blocked by looming crowds. Here’s what else can help bring that someone around.
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR FAINTING
Simply smelling the essential oils of lavender, peppermint, or rosemary can help prevent fainting or bring someone out of fainting. Smelling a strong raw onion can also be helpful. The nasal cavities are in close proximity to the brain, and smelling something with a strong aroma sends a different message to the brain. A few drops of Rescue Remedy can be placed behind their ears or onto their lips or wrists. If they are revived, two drops of Rescue Remedy can be taken in water or directly under the tongue.
WHEN TO SEE YOUR M.D.
Most people recover from fainting within a few minutes, but encourage them to remain calm and still for a few minutes after they recover. Get emergency medical help if the person does not become conscious within 5 minutes, if there is a serious health condition involved, or if the person is elderly. Place them in the recovery position and check their breathing and heart periodically. If you faint without knowing why, consult a competent health professional.
This What Causes Fainting article is taken from :
The Country Almanac of Home Remedies - Brigitte Mars
