Main Content
Top of the page
Heat syncope occurs when a person faints suddenly and loses consciousness because of low blood pressure. Heat causes the blood vessels to expand (dilate), so body fluid moves into the legs by gravity, which causes low blood pressure and may result in fainting.
Symptoms that could lead to heat syncope (fainting) include:
Heat syncope can be caused by blood pooling in the legs if a person has been standing still for a long time in a hot environment. It can also be caused by vigorous physical activity for 2 or more hours before the fainting happens.
A person's risk of developing heat syncope increases when the person has not adjusted (acclimated) to a hot environment. Being dehydrated may also increase the risk for heat syncope. Recovery is rapid after the person lies down in a cool environment.
Heat syncope is sometimes a symptom of a nervous system, metabolic, or cardiovascular problem that needs further medical evaluation.
Current as of: October 6, 2021
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & H. Michael O'Connor MD - Emergency Medicine
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.