When to Seek Medical Care

Because fainting can be caused by a serious condition, you should be transported to a hospital emergency department in an ambulance. Calling your health care provider may waste time.

The only exceptions are people who meet certain conditions.

• If all of these conditions apply, and you have a primary health care provider who is familiar with your medical condition, you may not have to go to the hospital.



• Have a family member or companion call your health care provider and ask if you should be taken to the hospital.



• If your health care provider is not available within 15 minutes, you should go to the hospital.



• Do not attempt to drive yourself; call 911 for emergency transport.

The following conditions may make a trip to the hospital unnecessary:

• Recurrent fainting or obvious vasovagal syncope in a healthy person younger than 30 years



• No other obvious symptoms present



• No known heart disease, high blood pressure, or bleeding or blood clotting problems

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