Loss of Consciousness
Losing consciousness—often called syncope, fainting, blackout, or passing out—happens when the brain briefly doesn’t get enough blood flow or oxygen. Many episodes are short and resolve on their own, but some signal serious conditions such as arrhythmia, stroke/TIA, internal bleeding, low blood sugar, dehydration, concussion, or seizure. If someone is unresponsive, not breathing normally, has a head injury, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, one-sided weakness, or seizure activity, call 911 immediately.
At iCare ER & Urgent Care in Frisco, Forney, and Fort Worth, TX, our ER-experienced clinicians provide rapid evaluation and treatment all in one location, including EKGs, on-site labs, and imaging when indicated—so you get clear answers and a safe plan forward.
Loss of Consciousness (Syncope) Overview
Syncope refers to a transient loss of consciousness with spontaneous recovery, usually from a temporary drop in blood pressure/heart rate or a sudden change in position. Near-syncope (feeling like you’re about to faint) deserves attention too—it can share the same causes and risks as a full faint.
Common pre-faint symptoms include lightheadedness, nausea, sweating, vision dimming or “tunnel vision,” palpitations, and ringing in the ears. Even when you “come to” quickly, you should be evaluated if the cause isn’t obvious.
Common Causes of Loss of Consciousness and Fainting
Because blood flow and balance are controlled by multiple systems, syncope has many triggers:
Vasovagal / Reflex Syncope: Pain, stress, fear, prolonged standing, or heat cause a sudden drop in heart rate/blood pressure.
Orthostatic Hypotension: Standing up quickly, dehydration, blood loss, or certain medications cause a sharp BP drop.
Cardiac Causes: Arrhythmias, heart attack, structural heart disease (aortic stenosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).
Neurologic Causes: Seizure, stroke/TIA, migraine variants.
Metabolic Causes: Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), anemia, electrolyte imbalance, thyroid disorders.
Pulmonary Causes: Pulmonary embolism, severe asthma/COPD flare with hypoxia.
Situational Triggers: Coughing, urination, swallowing, or post-exercise.
Head Injury/Concussion: A fall or impact can both cause and complicate loss of consciousness.
Symptoms and Warning Signs of Syncope / Blackouts
Seek urgent evaluation for loss of consciousness when accompanied by:
Chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations
New neurologic symptoms: weakness, facial droop, trouble speaking, severe headache, confusion
Seizure-like activity: jerking, tongue bite, prolonged confusion after the event
Injury from the fall: head strike, severe neck/back pain, bleeding
Age >60, pregnancy, or known heart disease
Recurrent episodes without a known cause
First Aid for Fainting and Loss of Consciousness
Call 911 if the person is not waking, breathing abnormally, has chest pain, severe headache, seizure, or head/neck injury.
Lay the person flat and elevate legs 8–12 inches (if no injury) to promote blood flow to the brain.
Loosen tight clothing, ensure fresh air, and keep the area safe.
Do not give food or drink until fully awake and alert.
If injured or pregnant, or if symptoms persist, seek medical care promptly—even if they feel better.
When to Seek Emergency Care (Call 911) for Loss of Consciousness
Loss of consciousness during exertion or with chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations
One-sided weakness, vision loss, severe headache, slurred speech (possible stroke/TIA)
Prolonged confusion, repeated episodes, or seizure activity
Major injury, significant bleeding, or suspected concussion
Known heart disease, abnormal EKG history, or family history of sudden death
For other episodes—especially if this is new, unexplained, or recurrent—come to iCare ER & Urgent Care in Frisco, Forney, or Fort Worth for same-day evaluation.
How iCare ER & Urgent Care Evaluates Loss of Consciousness in Frisco, Forney & Fort Worth
Our team moves quickly to identify dangerous causes and prevent recurrence:
Rapid Triage & Monitoring
Vital signs, oxygen level, orthostatic BPs, and cardiac/neurologic checks help gauge severity.Targeted History & Exam
We review triggers, posture at onset, meds (blood pressure drugs, diuretics, diabetes meds), hydration, recent illness, pregnancy status, and cardiac/neurologic risk factors.On-Site Diagnostics (as indicated)
EKG to assess rhythm or ischemic changes
Labs: blood counts (anemia), electrolytes, kidney function, glucose for hypoglycemia, pregnancy test when appropriate
Imaging: X-ray or CT if head/neck injury or other concerns; further imaging arranged if needed
Treatment & Stabilization
IV/oral fluids for dehydration, glucose for low blood sugar, oxygen, and symptom-based medications. Concussion care, wound management, and tetanus updates provided when indicated.Clear After-Care & Plan
You’ll leave with written instructions, return precautions, and referrals (cardiology, neurology, primary care) when needed. If hospital observation or advanced testing is required, we coordinate seamless transfer to the appropriate facility.
Prevention Tips for Syncope and Fainting
Hydrate regularly; add electrolytes during illness, heat, or exercise.
Rise slowly from lying/sitting; consider compression stockings if advised.
Eat regularly if prone to low blood sugar; carry quick carbs if diabetic.
Review medications with your clinician—some may lower BP or affect heart rhythm.
Avoid overheating, prolonged standing, and alcohol excess.
Learn your warning signs (sweats, dim vision) and sit or lie down promptly.
Why Choose iCare ER & Urgent Care – Loss of Consciousness Care All in One Location
All in one location: Exam, EKG, labs, and appropriate imaging in a single visit—fast answers without extra stops.
ER-experienced providers: Skilled in distinguishing syncope vs. seizure, cardiac vs. neurologic causes, and concussion care.
Pediatric & adult expertise: Age-appropriate evaluation and family-centered communication.
Short waits + online check-in: Walk in or reserve your spot for faster service.
Seamless hospital coordination: Expedited transfer and direct communication with receiving teams if higher-level care is needed.
Convenient North Texas locations in Frisco, Forney, and Fort Worth.
Blacked out or felt close to fainting? Get evaluated today at iCare ER & Urgent Care in Frisco, Forney, or Fort Worth, TX. Walk-ins welcome—or check in online for prompt, professional care.