When someone is passing out with their eyes open, this may be caused by generalized tonic-clonic seizures, long fainting episode, or vasovagal syncope. Read below for more information on loss of consciousness causes and treatment options.
3 most common cause(s)
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3 causes of open eyes while unconscious
This list does not constitute medical advice and may not accurately represent what you have.
Vasovagal syncope
Vasovagal syncope is one of the most common causes of fainting. occurs when the body overreacts to certain triggers, such as the sight of blood or extreme emotional distress. The body coordinates a sudden drop of heart rate and blood pressure, causing reduced blood flow to the brain and a brief loss of consciousness.
You do not need treatment for this condition, as it is normal and not a cause for concern. You may require medical attention if during the fainting episode you fell and injured a body part.
Long fainting episode
Fainting for an extending period of time requires an immediate physician work-up because it could be serious. You should see a doctor immediately.
Rarity: Uncommon
Top Symptoms: long fainting episode
Urgency: Emergency medical service
Generalized tonic-clonic seizure
A seizure is a short burst of uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain. A generalized tonic-clonic seizure affects both halves of the brain, and comes in two phases (tonic and clonic). The tonic phase is characterized by rigidity of all muscles and loss of consciousness. Saliva may escape the mouth, and the bladder may contract, releasing urine. The clonic phase follows, when the body appears to shake. This may last from seconds to minutes. The person gradually regains consciousness. A seizure may be caused by an underlying disease such as epilepsy, or by triggers such as heavy drinking, drugs, or anxiety.
Rarity: Rare
Top Symptoms: being severely ill, brief fainting episode, confusion/disorientation after returning to consciousness, not having protected the body during the fall, eyes rolling back while passing out
Symptoms that always occur with generalized tonic-clonic seizure: being severely ill, loss of consciousness without remembering, confusion/disorientation after returning to consciousness
Urgency: Emergency medical service
Over the Counter Treatment
Here are some over the counter treatment that might help:
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can trigger fainting spells. Consider electrolyte solutions to keep hydrated.
- Manage Stress: For stress-induced syncope, stress relief aids like aromatherapy diffusers can be beneficial.
Questions your doctor may ask about open eyes while unconscious
- How long were you unconscious?
- Do you notice your heart beating hard, rapidly, or irregularly (also called palpitations)?
- Have you been experiencing dizziness?
- Were you confused and disoriented when you woke up?
Self-diagnose with our free Buoy Assistant if you answer yes on any of these questions.
Open eyes while unconscious symptom checker statistics
People who have experienced open eyes while unconscious have also experienced:
- 15% Fainting
- 6% Dizziness
- 5% Involuntary Movements
People who have experienced open eyes while unconscious were most often matched with:
- 43% Generalized Tonic-Clonic Seizure
- 43% Long Fainting Episode
- 12% Vasovagal Syncope
Source: Aggregated and anonymized results from Buoy Assistant.
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