Collapsing

Collapse is when you fall down for no obvious reason (for example, you have not had a trip or fall). It may also be called:

• fainting
• a blackout
• passing out

When you collapse, you may become unconscious for a short while, such as when you faint. You might fall to the ground and not respond to sounds or being shaken.

You collapse when your brain isn't getting enough oxygen. When you're on the ground, it's easier for your heart to pump oxygen to your brain.

Collapse can become a medical emergency if you stop breathing or if your heart stops beating (cardiac arrest).

If you collapse, you may lose consciousness. Before collapsing, you may:

• feel nauseous (feel sick) or vomit
• have a stomach ache
• suddenly feel warm or sweaty
• become pale
• feel weak, dizzy or lightheaded
• have numbness or tingling
• have blurred or faded vision
• feel anxious or restless

You may also have tinnitus (ringing in your ears).

If someone collapses, follow these steps. You can remember them by thinking "Doctor's ABCD" (for DRS ABCD).

Collapsing can have a range of causes, such as:

• a problem with your circulation
• a problem with your brain
• the effects of poisoning (such as due to snake or spider bite)

Fainting

One common cause of collapse is fainting (syncope). Fainting can happen when your heart rate and blood pressure drop, meaning less blood reaches your brain. Fainting can happen when you:

• are very hot
• have been standing for a long time
• are distressed
• see or smell something unpleasant (for example, blood)
• stand up quickly, especially if you are tired, dehydrated or have low blood pressure or low blood sugar

Other causes of collapse

Other causes of collapse may include:

• a heart attack or other heart condition
• a pulmonary embolism (blood clot in your lungs)
• a stroke
• a seizure
• an injury or accident, especially if there has been a blow to your chest or head
• a drug overdose or other poisoning (bite or sting)

If you see someone collapse:

• assist the person to the ground and position them on their side
• get medical help

If you are with someone who is unconscious, call triple zero (000) for an ambulance. If the person stops breathing, start CPR.

If you have collapsed and recovered, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. It could be a sign that something is seriously wrong.

This is very important if you also have:

• a family history of collapse
• a family history of heart problems
• chest pain
• heart palpitations

If you collapse, your doctor will try to find the cause. They will ask about your symptoms and examine you. They may recommend tests, such as:

• blood tests
• an electrocardiogram (ECG) — an electrical tracing of your heart
• x-rays (especially if you have injured yourself after collapsing)

After a collapse, you may need to have:

• intravenous fluids (fluids given though a drip)
• medicines
• oxygen

Treatment will depend on the cause of your collapse.

Your doctor may also tell you:

• not to drive until you are fully recovered
• to stay with someone until you feel better

Follow your doctor's instructions on eating and drinking, and take any medicines they may have given you.

As a collapse can be caused by different conditions, it's not always possible to prevent it.

You may be able to stop fainting from happening by:

• changing position and standing up slowly
• staying well hydrated
• eating well
• getting fresh air
• avoiding triggers

If you feel like you are going to collapse, lie down and place your feet above your head.

If you collapse, you may injure yourself.

You can call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.