Unexplained Fainting After Enjoying Fruit Cider
Several months ago, I went out and consumed two small fruit ciders, each 330ml. While returning home, I suddenly lost consciousness on the train. I experienced a wave of dizziness, and the next thing I knew, I had collapsed. I was unconscious for roughly ten seconds before regaining awareness. That same evening, I visited the hospital, where I underwent a series of tests, including an ECG and blood work. Despite the thorough examinations, the medical staff couldn't identify any issues. They were perplexed, especially since I had no prior incidents like this. Recently, I had a large fruit cider during a theater performance, and about an hour later, I once again felt extremely dizzy, struggling to stay conscious. I think that had I not been seated, I might have fainted once more. I generally limit my alcohol intake, indulging perhaps once a month during special occasions or outings. Interestingly, during my last big night out, I consumed several pints of beer and shots without any dizziness. This makes me wonder if there's something specific about fruit cider that affects me, considering I rarely drink it and have experienced these episodes on both occasions. I am a 50-year-old male, standing at 5'8" (173cm) and weighing 10 stone (63kg), identifying as White European.
Answers (1)

6/19/2025, 10:20:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing concerning episodes of dizziness and fainting after consuming fruit cider, which understandably has raised worries given the lack of clear medical explanations following your hospital visits. Let's break this down to help you understand what might be happening and what steps you can take.
Key Points:
- Possible Alcohol Sensitivity: Your reactions to fruit cider may suggest a sensitivity to specific ingredients in that beverage.
- Other Contributing Factors: Consider factors like hydration, blood sugar levels, and overall health that might play a role.
- Monitoring Symptoms: Keeping track of how you feel can provide more insights into your reactions to different drinks.
Explanation:
Even though you didn't have noticeable issues with beer or shots, fruit ciders often contain various ingredients such as different sugars, additives, or preservatives that might provoke a reaction in some individuals. It's also possible that your body may react differently to different types of alcohol, especially if you’re less accustomed to one particular kind. Dizziness and fainting can sometimes result from blood pressure changes, dehydration, or even allergic reactions as well.
Prioritized Next Steps:
- Avoid Fruit Cider: For now, try to avoid consuming fruit cider, as you’ve already identified a pattern that links it to your symptoms.
- Hydrate Well: Ensure you are drinking enough water, especially before consuming any alcohol. Dehydration can contribute to dizziness.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of any beverages you consume along with how you feel afterward. Note any other triggers such as food, time of day, or activities.
- Consider Dietary Factors: Make note of your food intake that day, especially considering how your blood sugar may fluctuate.
- Attend Follow-Up Appointments: If episodes continue or worsen, consider scheduling follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to further investigate the issue. Discuss your findings from your symptom log to help guide the conversation.
If you experience severe symptoms like prolonged dizziness, fainting, or any other concerning changes, contacting a healthcare professional would be wise. I hope this helps clarify your situation and provides a path forward to keep you safe.
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