Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Fainting
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness and muscle tone. It is caused by not having enough blood flow to the brain.
What is going on in the body?
When there is not enough blood flow to the brain, passing out protects the brain from damage. People who faint generally lose muscle tone and fall to the ground. When someone is lying on the ground, the blood being pumped out of the heart doesn't have to fight gravity to get to the brain. Those who faint have a relaxed body, which uses less energy. This also makes it easier for the heart to pump blood to the brain.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
The cause of fainting may be minor or it may be life-threatening. Often, no cause can be found. The following diseases and conditions may cause fainting:
Additional factors that can cause fainting are as follows:
There may be other causes as well. In some cases, no cause is found.