Strange Fainting

[kmm3789]

Hi, I am 18 years old and have always been a very healthy person. A few weeks ago I passed out while in the shower with my boyfriend. We are not sexually active, just simply taking a shower together. We both concluded that I had just been dehydrated. But then a few nights ago it happened again. Only this time I seemed to have some sort of seizure before passing out. Both times this has occurred I have become very nauseated and dizzy before passing out. The second time this happened however, he said I was twitching for a couple seconds before becoming limp, and also that my eyes never closed. After doing some online research, it seems that I may have had an absence seizure. Do you think this is possible? Do you think the two incidents are related? And what sort of medical attention should I seek out?

[Godofredo MD]

Hi.

Low blood pressure (hypotension) can be due to many conditions including dehydration, bradycardia, bleeding, tachycardia, postural hypotension, etc. It might still be needed to determine what is actually causing the hypotension.

You mentioned being dehydrated during one of your episodes. Dehydration should be treated with fluids and minerals. If the dehydration is mild, and there is no nausea and vomiting, it can be treated with oral fluids and electrolytes. Moderate to severe dehydration usually is treated in the hospital or emergency room with intravenous fluids and electrolytes.

Hope this helps.

[kmm3789]

Thank you for your help! I actually visited my doctor this morning, and he felt that it was just due to my low blood pressure.
Thank you for your time and advice! Take care!

[Godofredo MD]

Hi.

How long do your "fainting" episodes last? Do you have any recollection of the episode after the incident?

Absence seizures last for only a few seconds and are usually not related with nausea and dizziness, so if your episodes last for more than just a few seconds, it may be unlikely that it is related to this seizure disorder.

One possible reason for your episodes could be syncope. This is associated with low blood pressure, heart problems, and autonomic nervous system disorders. It may also be related to emotional distress, pain, and other reactions to outside stressors.

It is possible for both episodes to be related to each other.

You should probably consult a physician to rule out any serious condition that may possibly be related with your condition.

Good luck.