Syncope (Fainting)

Syncope (Fainting)

·        Temporary loss of consciousness (ie up to a minute or so)

·        In physically or emotionally stressful situations (eg sight of blood), going out with new partner or boss

·        Vasodilation from alcohol, warmth or drugs may contribute

·        Usually standing or sitting

·        Often groggy and unwell afterwards

·        Myoclonus common (seizure like movements, vocalisations): only 10% motionless 

·        Due to ¯ cerebral blood flow:

o  Postural Hypotension 

o  ¯Cardiac output: arrhythmia, VT, periods of asystole (Stokes Adam disease)

·        NOT due to: TIA, hypoglycaemia, alcohol.  These take longer to recover