Episodes of blacking out can have various causes, including heart-related issues. We conduct thorough evaluations to identify the underlying cause and develop a personalized care plan.
Syncope, the medical term for fainting, can have various causes, with most being benign and not life-threatening. If you’ve been referred to a cardiologist, it’s likely because your doctor wants to rule out heart-related causes of syncope. Let’s explore this condition in detail:
Causes of Syncope:
Two heart and blood vessel-related causes of syncope include rhythm abnormalities and autonomic nervous system irregularities. The former can result from a heart rate that is too slow or too fast, while the latter leads to low blood pressure, reduced blood flow to the brain, and fainting. In fact, fainting is a natural response to low blood pressure, facilitating the return of blood pooled in the legs or abdominal organs to the heart, thus raising blood pressure and restoring consciousness.
Investigations for Syncope:
To determine whether a rhythm abnormality is the cause, your doctor may conduct an electrocardiogram (ECG) or order a 24-hour ECG called a Holter monitor. In some cases, an electroencephalogram (EEG) may be performed. Typically, combining the ECG with your symptoms helps identify whether the cause is neurological, rhythm-related, or the benign autonomic form of syncope. In instances where capturing the rhythm abnormality is challenging, an Implantable Loop Recorder (ILR) may be recommended. This device, implanted just beneath the skin, continuously records your heart rhythm over several years, allowing for correlation with syncopal episodes.
Neurally Mediated Syncope:
The common, benign form of syncope is medically termed neurally mediated syncope. You might have heard other names, such as neurocardiogenic, vasovagal, vasodepressor, or a simple faint. All these terms refer to the same issue. In this type of syncope, a mismatch in the autonomic nervous system control leads to improper blood vessel relaxation, a reduced heart rate, and low blood pressure when the body needs vasoconstriction and a slightly higher heart rate.
Treatment of Neurally Mediated Syncope:
Non-pharmacologic therapies, which do not involve medications, can effectively manage this type of syncope. These include:
Hydration : Staying well-hydrated is crucial for preventing dizziness and fainting. Reducing or eliminating caffeinated beverages is advised. Monitoring urine color and frequency can help assess hydration status. Beverages like Gatorade, decaffeinated options, juices, and sports drinks can be beneficial.
Recognition : Recognizing the early symptoms of pre-syncope is key to preventing fainting. These symptoms may include dizziness, sweating, nausea, and changes in color.
Antigravity Maneuvers : When you notice pre-syncope symptoms, employ antigravity maneuvers. Lying down with bent knees is highly effective. If lying down is not feasible, low squats or crossing your legs and tensing your abdominal muscles can be alternative measures.
Remember, non-pharmacologic therapies are usually sufficient to manage neurally mediated syncope. Medications are considered when these measures are ineffective.
Patient Support Groups:
The Syncope Trust and Reflex Anoxic Seizures (STARS) is a UK-based support group offering information and support to individuals affected by syncope and reflex anoxic seizures. They also provide education and guidance for medical professionals and the public on these conditions and their implications.
STARS Website: STARS – Syncope Trust And Reflex Anoxic Seizures
At Southern Cardiology Group, we are dedicated to helping you understand and manage syncope effectively. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
115 Frankston – Flinders Rd
Frankston VIC 3199
The following transport lines have routes that pass near Frankston-Flinders Rd / Golf Links Rd (Frankston South)
Bus: 775, 776, 782, 783, 791
T: (03) 9783 3684
F: (03) 9770 0325
info@southerncardiology.com.au
Southern Cardiology Group
115 Frankston – Flinders Rd
Frankston VIC 3199
Mon: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Tue: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Wed: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Thu: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Fri: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed
Public Holidays: Closed
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