Why soldiers faint during royal processions
Soldiers often drop during processions causing concern for their wellbeing
Royal events often have military pomp like Trooping the Colour and Order of the Garter however soldiers fainting during these historical events have become a recent trend.
In a number of ceremonies, regardless of grandeur, parade soldiers have dropped from unconsciousness just days apart, prompting a greater conversation of what can be done to avoid such instances.
Former RAF soldier Dr Adeline Rankin spoke about the firsthand experience of being in a hot uniform stranding for hours while carrying a heavy rifle.
"Fainting in general occurs when blood flow to the brain is reduced or insufficient to allow normal function," she said.
"In military personnel who are usually otherwise very fit and well, so-called parade ground syncope happens because the normal contraction of the leg muscles is reduced when standing still.
"The calf muscle pump is important in returning venous blood from the legs to the heart to contribute to cardiac output and hence blood flow to the brain.
"Standing still, particularly in warm weather, contributes to pooling of venous blood in the legs as well as dilation of blood vessels and dehydration.
"Blood flow to the brain is reduced, the person faints, falls to the floor removing the effect of gravity, blood flow improves, and they regain consciousness.
"There is some evidence for increasing salt intake to prevent fainting on parade. Water follows salt in the blood and blood volume is increased and fainting is less likely to occur."
