Syncope

What is Syncope?

Syncope (SIN'ko-pe) is temporary loss of consciousness and posture, described as "fainting" or "passing out." It's usually related to temporary insufficient blood flow to the brain. It's a common problem, accounting for 3 percent of emergency room visits and 6 percent of hospital admissions.

It most often occurs when the blood pressure is too low (hypo tension) and the heart doesn't pump a normal supply of oxygen to the brain.

What causes Syncope?

It may be caused by emotional stress, pain, pooling of blood in the legs due to sudden changes in body position, overheating, dehydration, heavy sweating or exhaustion. Syncope may occur during violent coughing spells (especially in men) because of rapid changes in blood pressure. It also may result from several heart, neurologic, psychiatric, metabolic and lung disorders. And it may be a side effect of some medicines.

Some forms of syncope suggest a serious disorder:

Those occurring with exercise .
Those associated with palpitations or irregularities of the heart.
Those associated with family history of recurrent syncope or sudden death.

What are the symptoms of Syncope?

The symptoms of syncope include feeling one or more of the following:

"Blacking out" .
Light-headedness.
Falling for no reason.
Dizziness.
Drowsiness.
Grogginess.
Fainting, especially after a meal or after exercise.
Feeling unsteady or weak when standing.

Syncope is often preceded by other symptoms (called premonitory symptoms ), such as lightheadedness, nausea and palpitations (irregular heartbeats that feel like "fluttering" in the chest).

Many people with syncope learn, on their own, to avoid a sync opal event or "passing out." They recognize the premonitory symptoms and sit or lie down quickly and elevate their legs.

Because syncope could be the sign of a more serious condition, it is important to seek treatment right away after a syncope episode occurs.

What treatment can be done for Syncope?

Specific treatment for syncope will be determined by your child's physician based on:

Your child's age, overall health, and medical history.
Extent of the condition.
Cause of the condition.
Your child's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies.
Expectations for the course of the condition.
Your opinion or preference.

For vasovagal syncope, avoiding the situations that trigger the episodes is recommended.

For illnesses causing syncope, such as irregular heart rhythms or epilepsy, medications may be prescribed by your child's physician to help control the disease.

With outflow obstructions, surgical repair of the heart problem may be indicated. Consult your child's physician regarding specific information for your child.