Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the fainting, as well as the patient’s age, symptoms and details surrounding the incident. In many cases, fainting is a one-time event that does not signal an underlying disease. In other cases, the underlying cause cannot be determined and treatments are aimed only at relieving symptoms. This often includes the use of medications to prevent blood pressure from dropping too low. However, if the cause of fainting is linked to diabetes, cardiovascular disease or other disease, the physician will treat these underlying causes.

Patients with diabetes benefit from keeping their glucose (blood sugar) within the range recommended by their physician. Controlling glucose is a primary treatment for autonomic neuropathy. When hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) or hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) is detected, patients should treat it promptly to avoid fainting and other complications. Diabetic patients are advised to ask their physician to create a sick-day plan for them, and to ask about carrying a glucagon kit in case of insulin shock (severe hypoglycemia).

By definition, fainting 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’s legs and tightening the abdomen, legs and buttocks. By causing more blood to be squeezed to the chest, blood pressure is increased, as is oxygen to the brain. Medical attention should be sought after any episode of fainting, particularly in patients with a history of heart disease.