Black out

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Black out refers to a temporary loss of consciousness, vision, or memory, often caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure, a lack of oxygen, or a neurological condition. It can also refer to a period of time that a person cannot remember, often due to the effects of alcohol or drugs.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Black outs can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common include:

  • Hypotension: A sudden drop in blood pressure can cause a person to black out. This can occur as a result of standing up too quickly, dehydration, or certain medical conditions.
  • Hypoxia: A lack of oxygen to the brain can also cause a black out. This can occur due to choking, drowning, or exposure to high altitudes.
  • Neurological conditions: Certain neurological conditions, such as epilepsy or migraines, can cause black outs.
  • Alcohol or drug use: Excessive consumption of alcohol or certain drugs can cause a person to black out and not remember periods of time.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of a black out can vary depending on the cause. They may include:

  • Loss of consciousness
  • Loss of vision
  • Memory loss
  • Dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Confusion

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for a black out will depend on the underlying cause. It may include:

  • Rehydration: If the black out was caused by dehydration, rehydrating with water or a sports drink can help.
  • Medication: If the black out was caused by a medical condition, medication may be prescribed to manage the condition.
  • Lifestyle changes: If the black out was caused by alcohol or drug use, reducing or eliminating use of these substances can prevent future black outs.

See also[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD