Fainting and Funny Turns

Fainting is the sudden, brief loss of consciousness. It is caused by a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain. This interruption can be caused by a number of factors, including dehydration, low blood sugar, or emotional distress. A "funny turn" is a colloquial term used to describe a sudden change in consciousness without a complete loss of consciousness. This can include dizziness, spatial disorientation, or feelings of sinking. Fainting was first mentioned in the "Simple Questions" chapter of the Huang Di Nei Jing Su Wen, where two types, hot and cold, were described. In modern practice, first aid is given to unconscious patients, and Chinese medical treatment is aimed at correcting the underlying cause of the fainting. Fainting is distinguished from other conditions associated with sudden loss of consciousness, such as stroke, by the absence of sequelae.