Syncope
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Introduction[edit | edit source]
Syncope, also known as fainting, is defined as the loss of consciousness for a short period of time followed by a rapid recovery. It is a common condition with a frequency ranging between 15% and 39%[1]. It becomes more common with aging where it affects 6% of individuals above the age of 75[2].
Clinical Signs and Symptoms[edit | edit source]
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Lightheadedness
- Diaphoresis (sweaty palms)
- Visual disturbances (tunnel vision, blurred vision)[3]
- Headaches
- Palpitations
- Paraesthesia[4]
Differential Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The underlying causes of syncope can be classified into four categories:
- Reflex-mediated: It has three different variations which are vasovagal, carotid sinus and situational.
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ Da Silva RM. Syncope: epidemiology, etiology, and prognosis. Frontiers in physiology. 2014:471.
- ↑ Syncope: Symptoms, causes & treatments. Cleveland Clinic. Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17536-syncope (accessed 9/1/2023)
- ↑ Syncope (fainting). RWJBarnabas Health. Available from: https://www.rwjbh.org/treatment-care/heart-and-vascular-care/diseases-conditions/syncope-fainting-/ (accessed 9/1/2023)
- ↑ White CM, Tsikouris JP. A review of pathophysiology and therapy of patients with vasovagal syncope. Pharmacotherapy: The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy. 2000 Feb;20(2):158-65.
