Passing out when high refers to a temporary loss of consciousness resulting from the effects of various substances. This experience can be disorienting and frightening for individuals and those around them. Understanding the underlying reasons for this phenomenon and knowing how to respond and prevent it can help manage such situations more effectively.
Understanding Why It Happens
Certain substances can cause blood vessels to relax and widen, a process known as vasodilation. This widening leads to a sudden decrease in blood pressure, especially when changing positions, such as standing up quickly. When blood pressure drops, the brain receives insufficient blood flow, leading to a temporary loss of consciousness.
Some substances can also induce dehydration, which further contributes to a reduction in blood volume and overall blood pressure. Dehydration can exacerbate the effects of vasodilation, making an individual more susceptible to feeling lightheaded or fainting.
Substances can also influence the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Significant fluctuations, either a sharp drop (hypoglycemia) or rise (hyperglycemia), can affect brain function and lead to symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or even fainting.
Consuming a large quantity of a substance, or a higher dose than the body is accustomed to, can overwhelm physiological systems. This overconsumption intensifies the substance’s effects, making the body’s compensatory mechanisms less effective in maintaining stable blood pressure and brain perfusion.
Individual body chemistry, pre-existing health conditions, and tolerance levels significantly influence how a person reacts to substances. Someone with naturally lower blood pressure or a heart condition may be more prone to passing out, even with smaller doses. Tolerance, where the body adapts to a substance over time, does not eliminate all risks.
Combining different substances, such as alcohol with cannabis or other depressants, increases the risk of passing out. These substances often have synergistic effects, meaning their combined impact is greater than the sum of their individual effects. For instance, alcohol is a vasodilator and a central nervous system depressant, amplifying the risk of low blood pressure and respiratory depression.
Immediate Actions When Someone Passes Out
When someone loses consciousness due to substance use, first, assess their responsiveness and breathing. Gently try to rouse them by speaking loudly or tapping their shoulder. Observe their chest for normal rise and fall, indicating breathing, and check for a pulse, typically at the neck or wrist.
If the person is unconscious but breathing, carefully roll them onto their side into the recovery position. This position helps keep their airway open and prevents them from choking on vomit. Ensure their head is supported and slightly tilted back to facilitate breathing.
Call for emergency medical help immediately if the person is unresponsive and cannot be woken up, has difficulty breathing, stops breathing, experiences a seizure, or has sustained an injury from falling. Dialing 911 or your local emergency number is important in these situations. Provide the dispatcher with clear details about the situation.
Remain with the person until medical professionals arrive. Do not leave them alone, as their condition could change rapidly. Continuously monitor their breathing and responsiveness, and be prepared to provide any necessary first aid.
When emergency responders arrive, provide them with as much information as possible. If known, share what substances were consumed, the approximate amount, and when they were taken. This information is invaluable for medical personnel to provide appropriate and timely care.
Strategies for Prevention
To minimize the risk of passing out, begin with a very small dose of any substance and wait to observe its effects before consuming more. This “start low and go slow” approach allows you to gauge your body’s reaction and prevents overwhelming your system. Different administration methods, like edibles, can have delayed effects, requiring more patience.
Staying well-hydrated by drinking water and having some food in your stomach before and during substance use is beneficial. Dehydration can lower blood pressure, and food can help stabilize blood sugar levels, both of which reduce the likelihood of fainting. Avoid excessive consumption of dehydrating beverages, such as alcohol.
Avoid mixing different substances, especially alcohol with other depressants like cannabis or opioids. The combined effects can be unpredictable and significantly increase the risk of adverse reactions, including loss of consciousness and respiratory depression. Each substance adds to the physiological burden on the body.
Understanding your own tolerance and not exceeding it is a practical prevention strategy. Respecting your personal limits helps prevent overconsumption and its associated risks.
Using substances in a safe, familiar environment with trusted individuals present can also reduce risks. Having people around who can offer support or call for help if needed provides a safety net. An unfamiliar or stressful environment can heighten anxiety and potentially worsen adverse reactions.
Before consuming any substance, it is helpful to understand its potential effects, typical onset time, and duration. Knowing what to expect allows for more informed decisions about dosage and setting. This awareness empowers individuals to use substances more responsibly.