Fainting Specialist

What is fainting?

Fainting or syncope is a temporary loss of consciousness that occurs as a result of insufficient blood flow to your brain. Most of the time, fainting is benign. However, if it happens frequently, it may point to a serious underlying medical condition that requires treatment. 

What causes fainting?

Fainting occurs for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes include dehydration, heavy sweating, and exhaustion. You might also faint if you change positions too quickly, such as standing up after lying down. 

Other, more serious heart problems can also cause fainting. The team at Premier Cardiovascular Consultants regularly treats fainting caused by bradycardia, tachycardia, and blood flow obstruction.

What is neurally mediated syncope?

Neurally mediated syncope (NMS) is the most common cause of fainting worldwide. It’s benign and usually doesn’t require medical treatment. NMS typically affects children and young adults, but it can occur at any age.

NMS happens when the part of your nervous system that regulates blood pressure malfunctions due to an external trigger, like stress or pain. It usually occurs in coordination with nausea, feelings of warmth, and lightheadedness.

What is cardiac syncope?

Cardiac syncope, also known as cardiovascular syncope, is a type of fainting that occurs due to heart-related health problems like low blood pressure, bradycardia, or tachycardia. It’s a serious condition and increases your risk of a heart attack or sudden death.

In older adults, cardiac syncope also increases the risk of heart failure and atrial fibrillation.

How do I know if my fainting is serious?

Only a doctor can determine if your fainting is the result of a more serious underlying condition. However, if you faint during exercise, have a family history of fainting, or your fainting occurs alongside heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat, you should seek medical treatment right away. 

What is the process for diagnosing the cause of fainting?

To diagnose the cause of fainting, the team at Premier Cardiovascular Consultants conducts a physical exam, asks you about your symptoms, and reviews your medical history. Depending on your age and overall health, they might also order an electrocardiogram, Holter monitor, or exercise stress test.

If these measures don’t provide enough information, your provider might also recommend a tilt test. This type of exam measures your blood pressure and heart rate while lying on a board that’s tilted at an angle. 

If you or a loved one regularly experiences episodes of fainting, schedule an appointment at Premier Cardiovascular Consultants by calling the office nearest you, or book online today.