Why Women in Their 20s and 30s May Suddenly Faint: Understanding Vasovagal Syncope

(PHOTO: EXPRESS.CO.UK)

Last month, a 26-year-old employee in Seoul’s Jung-gu district, identified only as Mr. A, suddenly lost consciousness while walking home from work. When he came round about five minutes later, people had gathered around him, and a police officer told him not to lie on the street and to take a taxi home. Mr. A believed the officer had mistaken him for a drunk person, which shows how a medical episode such as vasovagal syncope can be misunderstood in public.

Vasovagal syncope is a common cause of fainting. It occurs when the body overreacts to a trigger, causing blood pressure and sometimes heart rate to drop. This reduces blood flow to the brain and can cause a brief loss of consciousness. Although it can affect anyone, young adults, including women, may experience it. 

What Can Trigger Fainting?

Standing for a long time, hot environments, emotional stress, pain, exhaustion and dehydration can all trigger an episode, and skipping meals or not drinking enough water may make it more likely. Some experts believe women may be more susceptible because of naturally lower blood pressure and hormone-related effects on blood vessels, although this does not mean every episode has a hormonal cause. 

What warning signs should people look for? 

Dizziness, sudden warmth, nausea, sweating, pale skin and blurred or darkening vision often appear before a faint, and recognising them can give someone time to sit or lie down before they fall. Dr. Pfahnl of Banner Health says, “Women tend to have more symptoms and different triggers than men,” so the signs may not look the same for everyone.

Why the Right Response Matters!

A person who collapses may need medical attention, not judgement. If someone feels faint, help them lie down safely, preferably with their legs raised. If they lose consciousness, check whether they are breathing normally and seek help. Do not force them to stand. Call emergency services if they do not wake within one minute, have chest pain or difficulty breathing, or do not recover fully.

Vasovagal syncope is often harmless, but fainting should not automatically be dismissed as exhaustion or intoxication. Anyone fainting for the first time should be medically assessed, since other conditions can also cause loss of consciousness. Understanding the signs and responding with care can help prevent injuries and ensure that people receive appropriate support.