To determine the cause of fainting

A healthcare professional will ask about:

• What you ate or drank before the fainting episode
• Your history of fainting and any patterns related to fainting episodes
• Loss of consciousness or muscle tone before the episode
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of heart problems
• Medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs
• Other medical conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, or Parkinson’s disease

If testing is needed

This may include:

• Measurement of your blood pressure and pulse (heart rate) in various positions, such as laying, sitting and standing
• Tests to evaluate for heart disease such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram
• Blood tests to evaluate for anemia, thyroid or other endocrine abnormalities, kidney health and levels of various salts and minerals in your blood
• A tilt-table test. During this test, you lie on a table that moves from a flat to an upright position while you are secured with straps. Changes in symptoms, blood pressure, or heart rhythm in different positions can help identify the cause of fainting.

If your doctor believes fainting places you at high risk, you may be admitted to the hospital so these tests can be completed promptly.

Last Updated May 2026