Before, During, and After Fainting

Sometimes before fainting occurs, people experience sensations warning that they may faint. For example, when fainting is caused by orthostatic hypotension, people may feel light-headed before they faint. When fainting is caused by an abnormal heart rhythm, people may feel the heartbeat skip or race—sensations called palpitations. Such people usually recover quickly and can function normally soon after they regain consciousness.

When fainting is caused by a seizure, people may lose control of the bladder or bowel while they are unconscious. They may need a long time to clear their thoughts after they regain consciousness.

When fainting is caused by straining while having a bowel movement or urinating, injuries are more likely, because bathrooms tend to be small and full of hard surfaces. For example, people may bump their head on the edge of a sink.