What should I do now?
Call 911
Call 911 for new or unexplained chest pressure that persists or returns, severe trouble breathing, collapse without normal recovery, or sudden face/arm weakness or trouble speaking. Do not drive yourself.
Contact your care team
Unexplained fainting needs assessment. Fainting during exercise, with chest symptoms, or with known heart disease can require urgent care.
Keep your care plan
Follow the safety and driving plan from your care team; record a witness account when available.
SECTION 3
When should I seek help?
If unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin CPR and use an AED if available, following the emergency dispatcher’s instructions.
Concerning patterns
Fainting during exercise, while lying down, without warning, or with a history of heart disease or sudden death in the family needs urgent assessment.
If you feel faint, lie down safely. Do not stand up quickly. After unexplained fainting, avoid driving until you have been assessed and advised when it is safe.
Updated October 2026. Educational information; your own care plan may differ. Medical illustrations are simplified examples for teaching.