HEALTH TOPICS 
What's at the heart of fainting?
Most fainting is not related to abnormal heart rhythms.
Fainting, the temporary loss of consciousness that doctors call syncope (SINK-uh-pee), can be embarrassing, scary, and dangerous. It's also quite common — an estimated one in three people faints at least once in their lifetime.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise