– The significance of fainting depends altogether on the patient in whom it occurs, and the cause which induces it. If it occurs suddenly in a patient who is not specially nervous, and from no apparent cause, it may indicate grave disease, which will need the attention of a medical man. If a patient is known to faint easily on slight provocation, an attack is much less serious.
General Treatment. – The best thing for bystanders to do when a patient faints, is to retain their self-possession. There is very little necessary to be done. Place the patient flat on the floor and loosen any articles that may be tight about the neck and chest; a little cold water may be sprinkled on the forehead. When the cause is known, the proper remedy may be selected and a few drops placed between the teeth.
Medicines. – (Every few minutes until reaction occurs; or two or three times a day to correct the tendency. )
Aconite3.
– From fear or pain.
Coffea 3.
– From excessive joy.
Opium 3.
– From fright, reproach, violent scolding, taking offence.
China 3.
– From loss of blood.
Ignat. 3.
– After sudden emotions.
Veratrum3.
– After violent pain, driving the patient to distraction, cold sweat on forehead.
