Information for the public

About this information

NICE clinical guidelines advise the NHS on caring for people with specific conditions or diseases and the treatments they should receive. The information applies to people using the NHS in England and Wales.

This information explains the advice about the management of blackout (transient loss of consciousness) in adults and young people that is set out in NICE clinical guideline 109.

Does this information apply to me?

Yes, if you are aged 16 or over and have experienced a blackout.

No, if you:

  • are under 16

  • have had a physical injury, such as head injury or major trauma, before experiencing a blackout

  • have collapsed without loss of consciousness

  • have experienced prolonged loss of consciousness without recovery, which may be described as a coma.

  • Information Standard