Blackouts

A blackout, or a faint, is a sudden loss of consciousness caused by a temporary shortage of blood and oxygen to the brain.

Identifying the causes of blackouts is important for keeping you safe and well. 

Recognising Blackouts

Blackouts can sometimes be challenging to identify, particularly when they are brief. However, it's essential to suspect a blackout if:

• You fell and cannot remember what happened.
• You have injuries to your face, indicating that you may not have had a chance to put your hands out to save yourself.

Common Causes of Blackouts

Blackouts become more common as we age, and they can result from a number of things, including:

• Drop in blood pressure - A sudden drop in blood pressure, often experienced when changing position (e.g., standing up from a chair).
• Heart disorders - Certain heart conditions or irregularities in heart rhythm.
• Anxiety, panic attacks, or stress - Emotional factors such as anxiety, panic attacks, or stress can trigger blackouts in some individuals.

Taking Action

If you suspect that you may have had a blackout, it’s essential to tell your GP as soon as possible. This will help with finding the cause and choosing the right treatment to prevent future episodes.

Preventing Blackouts and Staying Safe

There are some practical steps you can take to reduce the risk of having a blackout, including:

• Stay well-hydrated - Dehydration can affect your blood pressure, so make sure you drink enough water.
• Sit or stand up slowly - When changing positions, do so slowly to minimise sudden changes in blood pressure.
• Manage stress and anxiety - Consider techniques such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness, or counselling to address emotional triggers.
• Follow your GP's recommendations - If you have a medical condition contributing to blackouts, follow your doctor's advice and treatment plan.

Remember, addressing the potential causes of blackouts can help you stay safe and maintain your overall well-being. By seeking medical guidance and taking preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of blackouts and enjoy a healthier and more active life.

Find Support

Please find below useful links, relevant resources and contact information. All links open in a new window and may include links to websites, videos, and PDF files for downloading and printing. 

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Local Support 

Visit our Help and Contacts section
Find local help and support
Find help to stay active in your area
Find local home safety support

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Falls Prevention Support

Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent ICB
Preventing falls – Stay steady, stay independent

Midlands Partnership University Trust - Falls Prevention
Local Falls Teams and falls prevention services contact information for South Staffordshire, North Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent and East Staffordshire.

Active Communities Stoke
Specialist-led sessions for physical and mental wellbeing, community-based activities in local venues and green spaces and supportive programmes for older adults, carers, and those with long-term conditions.

Everyone Health - Staffordshire
NHS Health Check is a free check-up for people aged 40 to 74. They are designed to spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease and diabetes.

Age UK Stafford & District
Offers lots of services for older people and their carers.

MPFT Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent - CBT
Talking Therapies Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent.

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Social Services

You are struggling with day-to-day living at home, and you feel you might need care support.

Staffordshire County Council
Phone: 0300 111 8010 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm)    

Stoke-on-Trent City Council 
Phone: 0800 561 0015  

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Community Directory

Stoke on Trent Community Directory
Community directory is an online tool to help you find out about activities, clubs, support, health services, and what’s on in your local area.          

Live Well at Home - Staffordshire County Council
Your guide to living safely and confidently in your own home, with practical tips and local support.

Staffordshire Connects - Adults and Communities
Find details of community-based support, groups, organisations, and services that are available on your doorstep.

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Support with Specific Conditions

MPFT Staffordshire & Stoke on Trent - CBT
If your dizziness is linked to anxiety, panic, or other mental health issues, this service can provide talking therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

UHNM - Adult Sleep Service
University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust (UHNM) - Adult Sleep Service for common sleep problems.

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Helpful Links 

Fainting guidance and advice - NHS
Signs and symptoms of stress - NHS

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More on this website

Visit our Information and Advice section
Visit our Staying Active section
Visit our Home Safety section
Visit our Help and Contacts section 
Start your online Self-Assessment

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