Omdlenie
Objawy
Omdlenie (syncope) to nagła, krótkotrwała utrata przytomności spowodowana przejściowym zmniejszeniem przepływu krwi do mózgu, prowadzącym do niedotlenienia tkanki mózgowej. Epizod trwa zwykle od kilku sekund do kilku minut, z szybkim i pełnym powrotem świadomości. Objawy prodromalne (presynkopa), takie jak zawroty głowy, nudności, zimna i wilgotna skóra, zaburzenia widzenia czy szumy uszne, pojawiają się na kilka sekund do minut przed omdleniem i stanowią ważny sygnał ostrzegawczy. Typowe omdlenia dzieli się na wazowagalne (ok. 50% przypadków), ortostatyczne (ok. 15%) oraz kardiogenne, które są najniebezpieczniejsze i często przebiegają bez objawów prodromalnych. Warto zwrócić uwagę, że u osób starszych omdlenia częściej mają poważne przyczyny i mogą przebiegać z mniej wyraźnymi objawami prodromalnymi. Kluczowe jest rozpoznanie objawów alarmowych, takich jak ból w klatce piersiowej, duszność, kołatanie serca, asymetryczne objawy neurologiczne czy omdlenie w pozycji leżącej, które wymagają pilnej diagnostyki i interwencji.
- Definicja i mechanizm omdlenia
- Objawy prodromalne omdlenia
- Przebieg omdlenia
- Typy omdleń i ich charakterystyka
- Omdlenie wazowagalne (odruchowe)
- Omdlenie ortostatyczne (hipotensja ortostatyczna)
- Omdlenie kardiogenne
- Omdlenie neurologiczne
- Grupy ryzyka i czynniki predysponujące do omdleń
- Grupy wiekowe
- Choroby współistniejące zwiększające ryzyko omdleń
- Czynniki sytuacyjne predysponujące do omdleń
- Leki predysponujące do omdleń
- Przebieg nietypowy i objawy alarmowe
- Objawy alarmowe przed omdleniem
- Nietypowe sytuacje wystąpienia omdlenia
- Objawy alarmowe po omdleniu
- Szczególne sytuacje kliniczne
- Presynkopa i omdlenie niekompletne
- Podsumowanie progresji objawów omdlenia
Definicja i mechanizm omdlenia
Omdlenie (syncope) to nagła, krótkotrwała utrata przytomności spowodowana przejściowym zmniejszeniem przepływu krwi do mózgu, co skutkuje ograniczeniem dostarczania tlenu do tkanki mózgowej. Zazwyczaj epizod omdlenia trwa kilka sekund do kilku minut, po czym następuje szybki i pełny powrót świadomości 12. Jest to stan stosunkowo powszechny – według danych epidemiologicznych dotyczy nawet 15% nastolatków i około 40% populacji doświadcza co najmniej jednego epizodu omdlenia w ciągu życia 34. Więcej przypadków występuje przed 40 rokiem życia, choć u osób starszych omdlenia częściej mają poważniejsze przyczyny 4.
Mechanizm prowadzący do omdlenia wiąże się z nagłym spadkiem ciśnienia tętniczego, zmniejszeniem częstości akcji serca lub zmianami w dystrybucji krwi w organizmie 5. Taki stan powoduje niedotlenienie mózgu, co prowadzi do chwilowej utraty świadomości i napięcia mięśniowego, w wyniku czego osoba upada. Paradoksalnie, upadek w pozycji leżącej przyczynia się do szybszej normalizacji przepływu krwi do mózgu i powrotu świadomości 67.
Objawy prodromalne omdlenia
U większości pacjentów przed wystąpieniem właściwego omdlenia pojawiają się charakterystyczne objawy prodromalne (ostrzegawcze), stanowiące ważne sygnały ostrzegawcze. Te objawy zwiastujące, nazywane presynkopa/” title=”presynkopa” class=”to-tag” data-termid=”94047″>presynkopą, zazwyczaj występują na kilka sekund do kilku minut przed utratą przytomności 89. Rozpoznanie tych objawów może pomóc zapobiec pełnemu omdleniu.
Do najczęściej występujących objawów prodromalnych należą:
- Uczucie osłabienia lub zmęczenia 108
- Zawroty głowy, uczucie „lekkości” głowy 111
- Nudności, czasem wymioty 810
- Zimna, wilgotna skóra (zimne poty) 112
- Bladość skóry 1013
- Zaburzenia widzenia (zamglone widzenie, widzenie tunelowe, ciemne lub jasne plamy przed oczami) 814
- Szumy w uszach, pogorszenie słuchu 1516
- Uczucie gorąca lub nagłe pocenie się 117
- Uczucie niepokoju, stresu lub lęku 110
- Bóle głowy 18
- Mrowienie lub drętwienie (szczególnie w kończynach) 108
Warto podkreślić, że czas między pojawieniem się objawów prodromalnych a właściwym omdleniem może być bardzo krótki – często tylko 5-10 sekund 19. To niezwykle istotna informacja z perspektywy klinicznej, ponieważ pacjent ma bardzo ograniczony czas na podjęcie działań zapobiegających utracie przytomności, takich jak przyjęcie pozycji leżącej z uniesionymi nogami.
Różnice w objawach prodromalnych w zależności od przyczyny omdlenia
Objawy prodromalne mogą różnić się w zależności od typu omdlenia. W omdleniach wazowagalnych (najczęstszy typ) objawy ostrzegawcze są zazwyczaj wyraźne i obejmują pełne spektrum wymienionych objawów 20. Natomiast w omdleniach kardiogennych (spowodowanych problemami z sercem) objawy prodromalne mogą być minimalne lub nawet nieobecne, co sprawia, że ten typ omdleń jest szczególnie niebezpieczny 21. U osób starszych objawy prodromalne mogą być mniej wyraźne lub pacjent może ich nie pamiętać po odzyskaniu przytomności 9.
Przebieg omdlenia
Typowy przebieg epizodu omdlenia można podzielić na trzy wyraźne fazy 1522:
Faza przedomdleniowa (prodromalna)
Jak opisano wcześniej, w tej fazie występują objawy ostrzegawcze, które mogą trwać od kilku sekund do kilku minut. Objawy narastają stopniowo, przechodząc od zawrotów głowy i osłabienia, przez zaburzenia widzenia, do nasilających się objawów wegetatywnych (pocenie się, nudności) 15. Nie wszyscy pacjenci doświadczają pełnego spektrum objawów prodromalnych, a u niektórych mogą one być bardzo krótkotrwałe lub nieobecne 21.
Faza właściwego omdlenia
W tej fazie następuje utrata przytomności i napięcia mięśniowego, co prowadzi do upadku lub osunięcia się 8. Osoba traci kontakt z otoczeniem i nie reaguje na bodźce zewnętrzne. W tym momencie pacjent wygląda blado, ma zimną i wilgotną skórę. Mogą wystąpić krótkotrwałe drgawki (zwłaszcza u osób z przedłużonym omdleniem) 23. Faza właściwego omdlenia trwa zazwyczaj kilkanaście sekund do maksymalnie 1-2 minut 133.
Faza postepisodowa (powrót świadomości)
Po odzyskaniu przytomności pacjent stopniowo powraca do pełnej świadomości. W tej fazie może występować dezorientacja, zmęczenie, ból głowy, nudności, a nawet wymioty 2420. Te objawy postepisodowe mogą utrzymywać się od kilku minut do nawet kilku godzin 101.
Ważne jest, aby pacjent pozostał w pozycji leżącej przez 10-15 minut po odzyskaniu przytomności, co zmniejsza ryzyko ponownego omdlenia w przypadku zbyt szybkiego wstania 2519. Pełny powrót do normalnego samopoczucia może nastąpić w ciągu kilku minut do kilku godzin 5.
Typy omdleń i ich charakterystyka
Omdlenia można sklasyfikować według różnych kryteriów, najczęściej ze względu na mechanizm patofizjologiczny. Poniżej przedstawiono główne typy omdleń z ich charakterystycznymi cechami klinicznymi 2627:
Omdlenie wazowagalne (odruchowe)
Jest to najczęstszy typ omdlenia, stanowiący około 50% wszystkich przypadków 2829. W tym typie omdlenia dochodzi do nieprawidłowej aktywacji odruchu wazowagalnego, co prowadzi do nagłego rozszerzenia naczyń krwionośnych (wazodylatacji) i zwolnienia czynności serca (bradykardii). W rezultacie następuje gwałtowny spadek ciśnienia tętniczego i zmniejszenie przepływu krwi do mózgu 3031.
Charakterystyczne cechy omdlenia wazowagalnego:
- Występuje często w odpowiedzi na specyficzne bodźce, takie jak: silne emocje, widok krwi, długotrwałe stanie, przebywanie w dusznym, zatłoczonym miejscu, ból 3233
- Zazwyczaj poprzedzone jest wyraźnymi objawami prodromalnymi 20
- Występuje głównie w pozycji stojącej lub siedzącej, rzadko w pozycji leżącej 34
- Szybki powrót świadomości po przyjęciu pozycji leżącej 24
- Zwykle nie świadczy o poważnych problemach zdrowotnych 30
Omdlenie ortostatyczne (hipotensja ortostatyczna)
Ten typ omdlenia występuje na skutek nieadekwatnej adaptacji układu krążenia do zmiany pozycji ciała, najczęściej przy szybkim wstawaniu z pozycji leżącej lub siedzącej 26. W rezultacie dochodzi do zalegania krwi w kończynach dolnych i spadku ciśnienia tętniczego (hipotensji ortostatycznej) 7.
Charakterystyczne cechy omdlenia ortostatycznego:
- Występuje po szybkiej zmianie pozycji ciała 35
- Częstsze u osób starszych, przyjmujących leki hipotensyjne lub z odwodnieniem 3637
- Może być objawem zaburzeń autonomicznego układu nerwowego 38
- Pacjenci często uczą się rozpoznawać symptomy i zapobiegać omdleniom poprzez wolniejsze zmiany pozycji 7
Omdlenie kardiogenne
Stanowi około 15% wszystkich omdleń i jest spowodowane problemami z sercem, które prowadzą do zmniejszenia rzutu serca i przepływu mózgowego 27. Jest to potencjalnie najniebezpieczniejszy typ omdlenia, gdyż może świadczyć o poważnych chorobach serca 321.
Charakterystyczne cechy omdlenia kardiogennego:
- Często brak objawów prodromalnych lub są one minimalne 21
- Może wystąpić w każdej pozycji ciała, również w pozycji leżącej 39
- Często poprzedzone kołataniem serca, bólem w klatce piersiowej lub dusznością 35
- Wymaga pilnej diagnostyki kardiologicznej 26
- Może być spowodowane arytmiami, wadami zastawkowymi, kardiomiopatią lub chorobą wieńcową 4041
Omdlenie neurologiczne
Ten typ omdlenia jest stosunkowo rzadki i wiąże się z chorobami neurologicznymi, takimi jak padaczka, udar mózgu czy przemijające niedokrwienie mózgu (TIA) 2635.
Charakterystyczne cechy omdlenia neurologicznego:
- Może towarzyszyć mu asymetryczne osłabienie, zaburzenia mowy lub zaburzenia widzenia 42
- Dłuższy czas powrotu do pełnej świadomości 43
- Często występują objawy dodatkowe typowe dla zaburzeń neurologicznych 44
Grupy ryzyka i czynniki predysponujące do omdleń
Określone grupy pacjentów są szczególnie narażone na występowanie omdleń, a pewne czynniki zwiększają ryzyko ich wystąpienia 4546:
Grupy wiekowe
- Młodzież i młodzi dorośli – najczęściej doświadczają omdleń wazowagalnych, zwykle o łagodnym przebiegu i dobrym rokowaniu 479
- Osoby starsze (powyżej 60-70 lat) – zwiększone ryzyko omdleń ortostatycznych i kardiogennych, często z wieloma współistniejącymi przyczynami, większe ryzyko powikłań i urazów 32946
Choroby współistniejące zwiększające ryzyko omdleń
- Choroby układu krążenia – arytmie, wady zastawkowe, kardiomiopatie, choroba wieńcowa 4041
- Cukrzyca – zwiększa ryzyko hipotensji ortostatycznej i autonomicznej dysfunkcji układu nerwowego 48
- Choroby neurologiczne – padaczka, choroba Parkinsona, neuropatie autonomiczne 38
- Zaburzenia psychiczne – zespoły lękowe, zaburzenia paniki, które mogą prowadzić do hiperwentylacji i omdleń 2949
- Niedokrwistość – zmniejszona zdolność krwi do transportu tlenu 41
Czynniki sytuacyjne predysponujące do omdleń
- Odwodnienie – zmniejszona objętość krwi krążącej 1141
- Długotrwałe stanie – zaleganie krwi w kończynach dolnych 50
- Ekspozycja na wysoką temperaturę – rozszerzenie naczyń krwionośnych 1133
- Silny stres emocjonalny lub ból – aktywacja odruchu wazowagalnego 51
- Wysiłek fizyczny – szczególnie niebezpieczny przy niektórych kardiomiopatiach 41
- Ciąża – zmiany hormonalne i hemodynamiczne 5241
Leki predysponujące do omdleń
- Leki hipotensyjne – beta-blokery, inhibitory ACE, blokery kanału wapniowego, diuretyki 3753
- Leki przeciwarytmiczne – mogą powodować bradykardię lub arytmię 44
- Leki psychotropowe – neuroleptyki, przeciwdepresyjne 5344
- Leki przeciwhistaminowe – niektóre mogą powodować hipotensję 53
- Nitraty – powodują rozszerzenie naczyń krwionośnych 53
Przebieg nietypowy i objawy alarmowe
Omdlenie może przebiegać nietypowo lub towarzyszyć mu mogą objawy alarmowe, które sugerują potencjalnie poważną przyczynę i wymagają pilnej interwencji medycznej 3954:
Objawy alarmowe przed omdleniem
- Ból w klatce piersiowej 3935
- Duszność 39
- Kołatanie serca 39
- Silny, nagły ból głowy 39
- Asymetryczne objawy neurologiczne (np. osłabienie jednej strony ciała) 42
Nietypowe sytuacje wystąpienia omdlenia
- Omdlenie w pozycji leżącej 39
- Omdlenie podczas wysiłku (sugeruje kardiomiopatię lub inne poważne choroby serca) 40
- Omdlenie bez objawów prodromalnych 39
- Omdlenie z towarzyszącymi drgawkami (mogące sugerować padaczkę) 55
Objawy alarmowe po omdleniu
- Przedłużony czas powrotu świadomości (powyżej 2-3 minut) 39
- Dezorientacja utrzymująca się dłużej niż kilka minut 39
- Ból w klatce piersiowej, duszność 56
- Objawy deficytu neurologicznego (zaburzenia mowy, widzenia, osłabienie kończyn) 39
- Nietrzymanie moczu lub stolca 56
Szczególne sytuacje kliniczne
- Pierwsze omdlenie u osoby powyżej 40-60 roku życia 4
- Omdlenia nawracające (więcej niż jeden epizod) 857
- Omdlenie u pacjenta z rozpoznaną chorobą serca 39
- Omdlenie z urazem (szczególnie głowy) 9
- Omdlenie podczas prowadzenia pojazdów lub wykonywania niebezpiecznych czynności 3930
Wystąpienie któregokolwiek z powyższych objawów alarmowych wymaga pilnej konsultacji medycznej i diagnostyki, gdyż może wskazywać na poważne zaburzenia układu sercowo-naczyniowego lub neurologicznego 5458.
Presynkopa i omdlenie niekompletne
Presynkopa (omdlenie niekompletne) to stan, w którym występują objawy prodromalne omdlenia, ale nie dochodzi do pełnej utraty przytomności 59. Pacjent doświadcza zawrotów głowy, osłabienia, zaburzeń widzenia i innych objawów charakterystycznych dla fazy przedomdleniowej, ale zachowuje świadomość 60.
Istotne klinicznie cechy presynkopy:
- Może trwać od kilku sekund do kilku minut 59
- Mechanizm jest podobny jak w omdleniu (przejściowe zmniejszenie przepływu mózgowego), ale niedostateczny do wywołania pełnej utraty przytomności 59
- Nie należy jej bagatelizować – presynkopa może być objawem tych samych poważnych schorzeń co omdlenie 5961
- Może poprzedzać pełne omdlenie przy kolejnych epizodach 62
- W przypadku kardiogennych przyczyn, presynkopa może występować również w pozycji siedzącej lub leżącej 61
Z punktu widzenia klinicznego, presynkopa powinna być traktowana poważnie i być przedmiotem takiej samej diagnostyki jak pełne omdlenie, szczególnie jeśli występuje nawracająco lub towarzyszy jej którykolwiek z objawów alarmowych 61.
Podsumowanie progresji objawów omdlenia
Progresja objawów omdlenia zwykle następuje w określonej sekwencji, choć tempo i intensywność poszczególnych objawów może się różnić w zależności od przyczyny omdlenia i indywidualnych cech pacjenta 158:
- Wczesne objawy prodromalne (kilkadziesiąt sekund do kilku minut przed omdleniem):
- Uczucie ogólnego osłabienia lub zmęczenia
- Lekkie zawroty głowy
- Uczucie gorąca lub zimna
- Niepokój, lęk
- Nasilające się objawy prodromalne (kilka do kilkunastu sekund przed omdleniem):
- Nasilone zawroty głowy, uczucie wirowania
- Nudności, czasem wymioty
- Bladość skóry
- Zimne poty
- Zaburzenia widzenia (zamglone widzenie, widzenie tunelowe, ciemne plamy)
- Zaburzenia słuchu (przytłumione dźwięki, szum w uszach)
- Faza pełnego omdlenia (utrata przytomności):
- Całkowita utrata świadomości
- Utrata napięcia mięśniowego i upadek
- Bladość, zimna i wilgotna skóra
- Czasem krótkotrwałe drgawki lub ruchy miokloniczne
- Faza powrotu świadomości (kilka sekund do kilku minut):
- Stopniowy powrót świadomości
- Dezorientacja, splątanie
- Osłabienie, zmęczenie
- Ból głowy
- Nudności
- Objawy postepisodowe (kilkanaście minut do kilku godzin):
- Ogólne osłabienie, zmęczenie
- Ból mięśni (szczególnie po upadku)
- Uczucie rozbicia
Należy podkreślić, że znajomość typowej progresji objawów omdlenia ma istotne znaczenie kliniczne, ponieważ pozwala pacjentowi lub świadkom rozpoznać zbliżające się omdlenie i podjąć odpowiednie działania zapobiegawcze (np. przyjęcie pozycji leżącej) 1963. Jednocześnie nietypowa progresja objawów lub obecność objawów alarmowych powinna skłonić do pilnej konsultacji medycznej 39.
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Materiały źródłowe
- #1 Fainting: Causes & First Aid Tipshttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21699-fainting
Fainting is a short-term loss of consciousness. It happens because of a sudden drop in blood flow to your brain. A fainting episode usually lasts a few seconds or minutes. Then, you wake up and return to normal. […] Signs youre about to faint may include feeling: Cold and clammy. Dizzy. Lightheaded. Hot and suddenly sweaty. Sick to your stomach. Stressed out or anxious. Weak. […] For a few hours after fainting, you may feel tired or just not quite right. […] The most common reason for fainting is a sudden drop in blood pressure, which reduces blood flow and oxygen to your brain. […] Fainting can happen again in people who have untreated fainting causes. […] Cardiac syncope is a sign that you may have a heart issue that can be fatal. […] Fainting, or passing out, usually happens because of a drop in blood pressure, which reduces blood flow and oxygen to your brain. Most fainting spells are nothing to worry about. But talk to a healthcare provider if you lose consciousness repeatedly or have any other symptoms. Finding the cause can help you take action to prevent future fainting spells.
- #2 Patient education: Syncope (fainting) (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDatehttps://www.uptodate.com/contents/syncope-fainting-beyond-the-basics/print
Syncope is the medical term for fainting or passing out. It refers to a relatively sudden loss of consciousness, followed by a spontaneous rapid and complete recovery. […] If you have symptoms of dizziness or lightheadedness without loss of consciousness, this is often called „presyncope” (or „near-syncope”); however, dizziness and lightheadedness are nonspecific symptoms that can also be caused by conditions that are unrelated to syncope (such as inner ear disorders). Syncope is caused by a short, temporary episode of low blood pressure. […] A person with syncope typically recovers quickly without treatment. However, injuries due to falls can occur during an episode of syncope, and recurrent episodes can be frightening. […] In most cases, syncope is not a sign of a life-threatening problem, although some people with syncope do have a serious underlying medical condition.
- #3 Faintinghttps://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/a-z/fainting/
Fainting is sudden brief loss of consciousness with falling down. A return to being awake and alert happens within 1 minute. Fainting is a brief loss of consciousness. Normal awareness returns in less than 1 minute if the person is allowed to lie down. Most fainting is harmless. There is a risk of a head or face injury from sudden falling. Fainting is common and happens in 15% of teens. Standing too long in one place is the most common cause of fainting. It’s caused by blood pooling in the legs. Simple fainting doesn’t cause any long-term problems. Most children with a simple faint are alert within 2 minutes. They feel normal after lying down for 10 minutes. They are able to stand without feeling dizzy. Most fainting can be prevented. Learn the early warning signs for fainting. They are feeling dizzy, blurry vision, and nausea. If you feel these warning signs, lie down right away. You only have 5 – 10 seconds to prevent fainting and falling down.
- #4 Fainting: Causes, Symptoms and When to see a Doctorhttps://patient.info/signs-symptoms/dizziness/fainting-collapse
Fainting is common at all ages and affects up to 4 in 10 people at least once in their lives. Most people never get medical help. Most people (95%) have their first attack of syncope before they’re 40 years old. […] If you have it for the first time after 40, it is more likely to be due to a serious underlying problem. The most common cause is a common faint, also called neurally mediated syncope (NMS). […] Many people get simple faints (vasovagal syncope) only once or twice. Identifying and avoiding triggers for a fainting spell can help to prevent them happening. […] The outlook for other causes of faints depends on the cause. Some causes can be easily treated, whereas others can be challenging to fix.
- #5 Syncope: Symptoms, Causes & Treatmentshttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17536-syncope
Syncope is also known as fainting. This is a temporary loss of consciousness with a quick recovery. Usually, syncope isn’t a cause for concern. Most people don’t need follow-up treatment. However, you need treatment for certain causes, such as heart issues. […] Syncope can happen if you have: A sudden drop in blood pressure. A drop in your heart rate. Changes in the amount of blood in areas of your body. […] If you pass out, you’ll likely become conscious and alert after a few seconds or minutes. However, you may feel confused or tired for a bit. You can recover fully in minutes or hours. […] Syncope can be a sign of a more serious condition. It’s important to get treatment right away after you have an episode of syncope. Most people can prevent problems with syncope once they get an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
- #6 Fainting Symptoms – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment | Max Labhttps://www.maxlab.co.in/symptoms/fainting
Fainting is a sudden loss of consciousness, also known as passing out or syncope. It’s caused by a sudden decrease in blood flow to the brain. Episodes usually last one or two seconds. Most fainting spells are not cause for concern, but it may happen often or you might have other symptoms – if so, it’s important to seek medical attention. […] Fainting happens as a result of a sudden drop in blood pressure. The most common causes are changes in the blood vessels or the heartbeat. […] Fainting is generally a minor thing. It’s when somebody loses consciousness and falls down, which will make them feel unwell for a few minutes afterwards. Usually, the person will only lose consciousness for a few seconds, but if it doesn’t pass quickly, the person should get medical attention immediately. […] There are many different reasons why someone may faint. It could be due to a drop in blood sugar, low blood pressure, or an increase in heart rate. Sometimes fainting is caused by a sudden change in position, such as standing up too quickly from a lying down position. Other times, it may be due to emotional stress or anxiety.
- #7 Fainting | Better Health Channelhttps://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/fainting
Fainting is a brief episode of unconsciousness caused by a sudden drop in blood pressure. The most likely cause of this sudden drop will either be some change in the blood vessels or the heartbeat itself. […] Most fainting will pass quickly and wont be serious. Usually, a fainting episode will only last a few seconds, although it will make the person feel unwell and recovery may take several minutes. If a person doesnt recover quickly, always seek urgent medical attention. […] Frequent fainting spells or sensations of light-headedness need to be medically investigated to check for underlying causes. […] Orthostatic hypotension means that the blood vessels dont adjust to a standing position, but instead allow the blood pressure to drop, which can trigger a fainting episode. For this reason, some people, particularly the elderly or those on blood pressure medication, should stand up from sitting or lying in bed slowly. This helps prevent fainting after sudden changes in position.
- #8 Fainting – treatments, symptoms, causes and prevention | healthdirecthttps://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fainting
Fainting is when you suddenly lose consciousness and become unresponsive for a few seconds. […] Before you faint, it is common to get warning signs such as weakness, dizziness, nausea, vision changes or anxiety. […] A faint can be caused by tiredness, dehydration, severe pain, anxiety, low blood pressure, low blood sugar levels, heart attack or stroke. […] Before fainting, it is common to experience some of the following: sweating, weakness, dizziness, light-headedness, shortness of breath, vision changes, blurred or faded vision, seeing spots or lights, nausea, vomiting, stomach-ache, pale face, cool and moist skin, numbness, tingling, anxiety, restlessness. […] When fainting, the person usually falls or slumps over. […] You should see a doctor if you have fainted and do not know the cause or have recently fainted more than once.
- #9 Patient education: Syncope (fainting) (Beyond the Basics) – UpToDatehttps://www.uptodate.com/contents/syncope-fainting-beyond-the-basics/print
In young adults and children, most cases of syncope are not associated with an underlying medical problem. […] Syncope in these cases is often considered „innocent” as it does not increase risk of death, but potential for physical injury remains an important risk. […] A person who suddenly and unexpectedly loses consciousness can be injured due to a fall or accident. Up to 35 percent of people who have syncope injure themselves; older adults are more likely to be injured during a syncopal attack. […] Because of the risk of injury and the potential for serious underlying disease being responsible, any person who has a syncopal episode should seek medical attention. […] In most cases of vasovagal syncope, you have some warning that you are near fainting. These signs include dizziness, feeling hot or cold, nausea, pale skin, „tunnel-like” vision, disturbance of hearing, and profuse sweating. […] After the episode, symptoms may continue because of continued low blood pressure. Some people feel extremely tired afterward. […] In some cases, particularly in older people, the person may not remember having experienced any warning symptoms after they recover.
- #10 Fainting: What It Feels Like and What Causes Ithttps://www.webmd.com/brain/understanding-fainting-basics
Fainting, also called syncope (pronounced SIN-ko-pee), is a sudden, brief loss of consciousness and posture caused by decreased blood flow to the brain. […] Most episodes are very brief. In most cases, the person who has fainted regains complete consciousness within just a few minutes. […] Fainting happens when you suddenly have less blood flow to your brain, causing a loss of consciousness. […] Symptoms of fainting include: Sweating, Feeling weak, dizzy, or lightheaded, Trouble catching your breath, Changes to your vision, Feeling sick to your stomach and throwing up, Loss of color in your face, Moist, cool skin, Tingling or numbness, Anxiety, Restlessness. […] Fainting may have a variety of causes. […] Most people who have a simple fainting spell have no underlying heart or neurological (nerve or brain) problem.
- #11 Fainting: Causes, Types, and Preventionhttps://www.healthline.com/health/fainting
Fainting, or the temporary loss of consciousness, can occur if your brain isnt getting enough oxygen. Fainting happens when you lose consciousness for a short amount of time because your brain isnt getting enough oxygen. A fainting spell generally lasts from a few seconds to a few minutes. […] Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, weak, or nauseous sometimes happens before you faint. A full recovery usually takes a few minutes. If theres no underlying medical condition causing you to faint, you may not need any treatment. Fainting isnt usually a cause for concern, but it can sometimes be a symptom of a serious medical problem. […] In many cases, the cause of fainting is unclear. Fainting can be triggered by a number of factors, including: fear or other emotional trauma, severe pain, a sudden drop in blood pressure, low blood sugar due to diabetes, hyperventilation, dehydration, standing in one position for too long, standing up too quickly, physical exertion in hot temperatures, coughing too hard, straining during a bowel movement, consuming drugs or alcohol, seizures.
- #12 Syncope | Fainting | MedlinePlushttps://medlineplus.gov/fainting.html
Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness. If you’re about to faint, you’ll feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous. Your field of vision may „white out” or „black out.” Your skin may be cold and clammy. You lose muscle control at the same time, and may fall down. […] Fainting usually happens when your blood pressure drops suddenly, causing a decrease in blood flow to your brain. It is more common in older people. […] Fainting is usually nothing to worry about, but it can sometimes be a sign of a serious problem. If you faint, it’s important to see your health care provider and find out why it happened.
- #13https://www.advocarearoestyent.com/are-you-sick/Fainting-AYS
Fainting is a sudden brief loss of consciousness with falling down; passing out. […] A return to being awake and alert happens within 1 minute. […] Fainting is a brief loss of consciousness. Normal awareness returns in less than 1 minute if the person is allowed to lie down. […] Fainting can happen at any age. […] Most fainting is harmless. There is a risk of a head or face injury from sudden falling. […] Dizziness (light-headed), blurred vision, nausea, sweating, feeling cold. […] These last for 5 to 10 seconds before passing out. […] The person may look pale just before passing out. […] Fainting is common. It can happen at any age. Most faints occur before age 40. […] Simple fainting doesn’t cause any long-term problems. […] Most people with a simple faint are alert within 2 minutes.
- #14 Fainting: MedlinePlus Medical EncyclopediaLockhttps://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003092.htm
Fainting is a brief loss of consciousness due to a drop in blood flow to the brain. The episode most often lasts less than a couple of minutes and you usually recover from it quickly. The medical name for fainting is syncope. […] When you faint, you not only lose consciousness, you also lose muscle tone and the color in your face. Before fainting, you may feel weak, sweaty, or nauseated. You may have the sense that your vision is constricting (tunnel vision) or noises are fading into the background. […] If you have a history of fainting, follow your health care provider’s instructions for how to prevent fainting. For example, if you know the situations that cause you to faint, avoid or change them. […] Your provider will ask questions to determine whether you simply fainted, or if something else happened (such as a seizure or heart rhythm disturbance), and to figure out the cause of the fainting episode. If someone saw the fainting episode, their description of the event may be helpful. […] Treatment depends on the cause of fainting.
- #15 Faintinghttps://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/F_I/Fainting
The symptoms usually progress from dizziness, clamminess (cold and damp) of the skin, a blurring of vision, paleness, nausea, complete loss of vision, weakness of limbs, through to a collapse. […] Fainting is actually the bodys way of getting the head to be at the same level as the heart level to allow oxygen rich blood to flow to the head.
- #16 Fainting: Causes, Symptoms and When to see a Doctorhttps://patient.info/signs-symptoms/dizziness/fainting-collapse
Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness that happens when the brain does not receive enough oxygen because of reduced blood flow to the brain. It comes on suddenly, only lasts for a short time and you recover fully within a short time. It is also often called a blackout. The medical term is syncope. It isn’t the same thing as a seizure which usually causes jerking. […] When you faint, you become unconscious for a few seconds. It is also called passing out or blacking out. The medical term for this is syncope. You may feel sick and sweaty first or pass out with no warning signs at all. […] Fainting happens because the brain needs a constant supply of oxygen. If that supply falls below a certain level, we fall to the ground, which makes it easier for the more oxygen-rich blood to reach the brain, and so we regain consciousness.
- #17 Fainting | Healthifyhttps://healthify.nz/health-a-z/f/fainting
Fainting happens when your brain doesn’t get enough oxygen, causing you to pass out. Most people recover quickly. […] Fainting is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to low blood pressure. After you lose consciousness (pass out) and fall or lie down, more blood can flow to your brain so you wake up again. Usually fainting happens for a reason, such as if you have been standing for a long time in a hot place, or if you’re in pain. […] Before you faint, you might experience a range of symptoms or warnings. These can include: looking pale, feeling warm, feeling light-headed, sick (nauseous) and sweaty, experiencing a spinning sensation, losing some or all of your vision, having trouble hearing. […] Some people know they are going to faint because they have these symptoms beforehand, this is known as pre-syncope.
- #18 Syncope: Symptoms, Causes & Treatmentshttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17536-syncope
The most common syncope symptoms include: Blacking out. Feeling lightheaded. Falling for no reason. Feeling dizzy. Feeling drowsy or groggy. Fainting, especially after eating or exercising. Feeling unsteady or weak when standing. Changes in vision, such as seeing spots or having tunnel vision. Headaches. […] Syncope, or passing out, happens when you don’t have enough blood flowing to your brain. There are many causes for this, depending on the type of syncope. Many people have a medical condition they may or may not know about that affects their nervous system or heart. You may also have a condition that affects blood flow through your body and causes your blood pressure to drop when you change positions (for example, going from lying down to standing). […] Vasovagal syncope happens when you have a sudden drop in blood pressure, which causes a drop in blood flow to your brain. It often occurs after standing for a while or under emotional distress.
- #19https://www.advocarearoestyent.com/are-you-sick/Fainting-AYS
They feel normal after lying down for 10 minutes. […] They are able to stand again without feeling dizzy. It may help to stand up slowly. […] If fainting was due to stress or fear, it may help to talk about what happened. […] If you feel these warning signs, lie down right away. […] Most fainting can be prevented. […] You only have 5 – 10 seconds to prevent fainting and falling down. […] If you tend to faint, extra water and salt are key.
- #20 Vasovagal Syncope | Cedars-Sinaihttps://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/v/vasovagal-syncope.html
Vasovagal syncope is a condition that leads to fainting in some people. It’s also called neurocardiogenic syncope or reflex syncope. It’s the most common cause of fainting. It’s usually not harmful and not a sign of a more serious problem. […] Fainting is the defining symptom of vasovagal syncope. Often you may have certain symptoms before actually fainting, such as: Nausea, Warmth, Turning pale, Getting sweaty palms, Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, Blurred vision. […] When a person does faint, lying down restores blood flow to the brain. Consciousness should return fairly quickly. You might not feel normal for a little while after you faint. You might feel depressed or fatigued for a short time. Some people even feel nauseous and may vomit. […] Some people have only one or two episodes of vasovagal syncope in their life. For others, the problem is more chronic and happens with no warning.
- #21 Syncope or Fainting – Cardiac causes, symptoms, diagnosis & treatmenthttp://www.krishnacardiac.com/dis_conditions/s_syn.htm
Syncope is a sudden, brief loss of consciousness or a fainting spell. Often it is due to insufficient flow of blood and oxygen to the brain. Often syncope is preceded by warning signs. These may include: seeing flashing or gleaming lights, having blurred vision or vision loss, having a sudden headache, neck or shoulder pain, feeling numb or weak, or having difficulty speaking. […] Usually, if the syncope is caused by heart or cardiovascular problems, there will be no warning signs. […] Syncope may be a symptom of a serious disease which if left untreated may lead to permanent impairment. If you have fainted, be sure to contact your health care professional to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. […] Some of the medical conditions of which fainting is a symptom are: disorders of the brain or nervous systems; disorders of the lungs, blood, heart or cardiovascular system; and psychiatric disorders such as hysteria or panic attacks. Two of the most common causes of syncope are „Vasovagal” syncope and „Orthostatic Hypotension.”
- #22 What Causes Fainting (Syncope) Spells?https://www.emedicinehealth.com/fainting/article_em.htm
Fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness. Fainting is caused by a temporary loss of the brain’s blood supply and can be a sign of a more serious condition. […] The most common causes of fainting are vasovagal (a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure) and cardiac conditions. In a large number of cases of fainting the cause is unknown. […] Fainting (syncope) has many different causes. […] Cardiac causes of fainting are generally life-threatening and include the following: […] The treatment of fainting depends on the diagnosis. […] The prognosis of a person who has fainted depends greatly on the underlying cause, age of patient and available treatments. Cardiac syncope carries the highest chance of sudden death especially in the elderly. Fainting that is not associated with cardiac or neurologic disease, however, presents a more limited risk although it is higher than in the general population.
- #23 Syncope (medicine) – Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Syncope_(medicine)
„Loss of consciousness and muscle strength is a symptom of syncope. […] There are sometimes symptoms before the loss of consciousness such as lightheadedness, sweating, pale skin, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, or feeling warm. […] Syncope may also be associated with a short episode of muscle twitching. […] Causes range from non-serious to potentially fatal. […] There are three broad categories of causes: heart or blood vessel related; reflex, also known as neurally mediated; and orthostatic hypotension. […] Neurally mediated syncope occurs when blood vessels expand and heart rate decreases inappropriately. […] Vasovagal syncope is one of the most common types which may occur in response to any of a variety of triggers, such as scary, embarrassing or uneasy situations, during blood drawing, or moments of sudden unusually high stress.
- #24 Vasovagal Syncope: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatmentshttps://www.verywellhealth.com/vasovagal-cardioneurogenic-syncope-1746389
You will usually regain consciousness shortly after falling or being helped to the ground. This is because your normal blood pressure is restored in the lying-down position. […] After an episode of vasovagal syncope, many people will feel nauseous, dizzy, and very tired. These symptoms can last anywhere from minutes to hours. […] Recovery usually starts within seconds or minutes, but you may need 10 minutes or more before standing back up so you don’t faint again.
- #25 Syncope: Symptoms, Causes & Treatmentshttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17536-syncope
If someone faints, follow these steps: Check to make sure they’re breathing. Make sure they lie down or sit with their head between their knees for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Offer the person cold water to drink. […] Treatment options will depend on what’s causing your syncope and the results of your evaluation and testing. The goal of treatment is to keep you from having episodes of syncope. […] With the proper diagnosis and treatment, you can manage and control syncope. If you’ve had an episode of syncope, there’s about a 30% chance you will have another episode. […] Although most episodes of syncope aren’t dangerous, they can be life-threatening if you have abnormal heart rhythms or a neurologic cause. […] Depending on the cause of your syncope, you should have a follow-up appointment with a provider two to four weeks after you get hospital or outpatient treatment for it.
- #26 Syncope: Symptoms, Causes & Treatmentshttps://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17536-syncope
In vasovagal syncope, your heart rate and blood pressure inappropriately decrease severely. This causes decreased blood flow to your brain and leads to passing out. Typically, vasovagal syncope is benign. […] Postural syncope (also called postural hypotension or orthostatic hypotension) happens when your blood pressure drops suddenly due to a quick change in position, such as standing up after lying down. […] Cardiac syncope can occur if you have a heart or blood vessel condition that affects blood flow to your brain. […] If you have cardiac syncope, it’s important to see a cardiologist for proper treatment. […] Neurologic syncope can happen when you have a neurological condition such as a seizure, stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). […] The cause of syncope is unknown in about 33% of people who have it.
- #27 Types of Syncope: What Are They, Symptoms, and CausesÂhttps://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-syncope
Syncope is a temporary loss of consciousness that happens due to a decrease in blood flow to your brain. Its more commonly known as fainting. […] Fainting accounts for between 3 and 5 percent of emergency room visits in the United States. An estimated 42 percent of the population will experience a fainting episode during their lifetime. […] Sometimes, though, the cause of fainting cant be determined. Its estimated that 10 to 40 percent of fainting cases have an unknown cause. […] In people with reflex syncope, fainting is often preceded by symptoms such as: lightheadedness, nausea, feelings of warmth, tunnel vision, visual blackout or grayout. […] Cardiac syncope is fainting caused by a problem with your heart. When your heart isnt working quite as it should, your brain receives less blood. Its estimated that cardiac syncope causes about 15 percent of fainting episodes.
- #28 Syncope or Fainting – Cardiac causes, symptoms, diagnosis & treatmenthttp://www.krishnacardiac.com/dis_conditions/s_syn.htm
Vasovagal syncope accounts for about 50 percent of all episodes of fainting. […] After fainting, you may be pale and have a slowed heart rate (bradycardia). This condition is temporary. […] Orthostatic hypotension or „postural syncope” is a potentially serious condition which occurs when your blood pressure significantly drops after you stand or sit up. If you experience orthostatic hypotension, you may feel dizzy or feel sudden neck or shoulder pain. You may also experience blurred vision prior to fainting. […] If you have fainted due to orthostatic hypotension, you are probably at least 85 years old. […] Although certain irregular heart rates (arrhythmias) may cause syncope, fainting isn’t inevitable if you have an arrhythmia. […] Some of the arrhythmias which may cause fainting are: atrioventricular block, sinus node disorder, ventricular tachycardia, paroxysmal atrial tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, or bradycardia.
- #29 FAINTING OR SYNCOPE: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW | Mya Carehttps://myacare.com/blog/fainting-or-syncope-all-you-need-to-know
Syncope occurs (in some cases) when the blood vessels in your body dilate or widen, causing blood to pool away from your brain. There is a sudden drop in blood flow to your brain, which abruptly receives less oxygen and nutrients, leading to a brief period of unconsciousness. […] The most common cause of fainting is vasovagal syncope, known as the 'common faint.’ This type comprises 50% of all episodes. […] Yes, it is possible to faint from a panic attack. Panic attacks can cause several symptoms, including rapid heart rate, sweating, and dizziness. These symptoms can trigger a drop in blood pressure, leading to syncope. […] Syncope is more common in women than men, especially young women. Reasons include hormonal changes, blood vessel constriction, and the tendency to hyperventilate.
- #30 Vasovagal Syncope | Cedars-Sinaihttps://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/v/vasovagal-syncope.html
Vasovagal syncope itself is generally not dangerous. Of course, fainting can lead to injuries from falling. Or it can be dangerous if it happens at certain times, like while driving. […] Vasovagal syncope is the most common cause of fainting. It happens when the blood vessels open too wide or the heartbeat slows, causing a temporary lack of blood flow to the brain.
- #31 Vasovagal syncope – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vasovagal-syncope/symptoms-causes/syc-20350527
Vasovagal syncope occurs when you faint because your body overreacts to certain triggers. […] The vasovagal syncope trigger causes your heart rate and blood pressure to drop suddenly. That leads to reduced blood flow to your brain, causing you to briefly lose consciousness. […] Recovery after a vasovagal episode generally begins in less than a minute. However, if you stand up too soon after fainting within about 15 to 30 minutes you’re at risk of fainting again. […] During a vasovagal syncope episode, your heart rate slows, and the blood vessels in your legs widen. This allows blood to pool in your legs, which lowers your blood pressure. The drop in blood pressure and slowed heart rate quickly reduce blood flow to your brain, and you faint.
- #32 Syncope (Fainting) | American Heart Associationhttps://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/symptoms-diagnosis–monitoring-of-arrhythmia/syncope-fainting
Syncope is also called fainting or passing out. […] It most often occurs when blood pressure is too low and the heart doesn’t pump enough oxygen to the brain. […] NMS usually happens after standing for a long time. It is often preceded by a sensation of warmth, nausea, lightheadedness, tunnel vision or visual âgray out.â Placing the person in a reclining position restores blood flow and consciousness. […] Cardiac (cardiovascular) syncope is caused by various heart conditions, such as bradycardia, tachycardia or certain types of low blood pressure. It can indicate an increased risk of sudden cardiac death. […] Sick sinus syndrome, atrial fibrillation and other serious cardiac conditions can cause recurrent syncope in older adults, with a sharp increase after age 70. […] Syncope is common, and older adults are at greater risk of hospitalization and death. […] Patients of any age may need medication to help control or improve syncope. […] Some studies have shown that with recurrent episodes of fainting, the quality of life is reduced in both adults and pediatric patients.
- #33 Diagnosing and Treating Vasovagal Syncope | Banner Healthhttps://www.bannerhealth.com/services/heart/vasovagal-syncope
If you lie down when you notice these warning signs, you may prevent fainting. […] During fainting episodes, you may lose consciousness and fall to the ground. These episodes usually last a few seconds to a couple of minutes. […] Most of the time, syncope episodes arent serious but you could hurt yourself if you fall or if you faint while driving. […] Most people recover quickly, but its important to contact a health care provider after fainting so you can find out whats causing it. […] A combination of responses in your body can cause vasovagal syncope. […] This response can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure, which can cause fainting. […] Its not always clear why vasovagal syncope occurs, but common triggers include: Prolonged standing in one position, which can cause blood to pool in the legs, Changing positions quickly from lying down to standing up, Emotional stress or anxiety, Severe pain, such as from an injury, Dehydration, especially after a recent illness like the flu, since lack of fluids can reduce blood volume and lead to fainting, Heat exposure or exhaustion, The sight of blood or needles.
- #34 Vasovagal Syncope: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatmentshttps://www.verywellhealth.com/vasovagal-cardioneurogenic-syncope-1746389
Vasovagal syncope suddenly develops when your body reacts so strongly to a trigger like seeing blood or being scared that you faint. Your heart rate and blood pressure plummet, but the heart doesn’t stop. […] An episode of fainting from vasovagal syncope usually only lasts seconds to minutes. For example, fainting while sitting in a chair while having your blood taken could be an episode of vasovagal syncope. […] The time between when prodromal symptoms come on and when you actually pass out can last for a few seconds. […] Episodes of vasovagal syncope have several key symptoms and features that make them different from other causes of fainting: The episodes almost always occur while you’re standing or sitting up. This is because more blood goes to your legs when you are standing and your blood pressure drops. Fainting almost never happens when someone is lying down.
- #35 When should you worry about fainting? – Harvard Healthhttps://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/when-should-you-worry-about-fainting
All of these heart problems often produce symptoms such as palpitations (a feeling like your heart is skipping a beat or racing), shortness of breath, or chest tightness. If you have any of these symptoms, it is urgent that you get immediate medical attention. […] Another serious cause of a sudden loss of consciousness is a seizure, which is an abnormality of the brain, not related to blood pressure. […] Sometimes fainting is caused by stimulation of the vagus nerve, which can briefly lower both heart rate and blood pressure. […] You may lose consciousness for just a moment if your blood pressure drops when you stand, a condition called orthostatic hypotension. […] The bottom line is that you need medical evaluation if you faint or if you feel repeatedly as if you are about to faint.
- #36 Dizziness or Light-Headedness When Standing Up – Heart and Blood Vessel Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Versionhttps://www.merckmanuals.com/home/heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/symptoms-of-heart-and-blood-vessel-disorders/dizziness-or-light-headedness-when-standing-up
In people who become dizzy or light-headed when standing up, certain symptoms and characteristics are cause for concern. They include falling or fainting (passing out). […] The most common causes of sudden dizziness medications, bed rest, and decreased blood volume are usually obvious. […] Dizziness or light-headedness when standing occurs in about 15 to 20% of older adults. It is more common among people with coexisting disorders, especially high blood pressure, and among residents of long-term care facilities. Many falls may result from dizziness when standing.
- #37 When to Go to the Doctor for Faintinghttps://www.unitypoint.org/news-and-articles/when-to-go-to-the-doctor-for-fainting
However, fainting can still be a big deal and should be taken seriously. […] Nearly 20% of fainting episodes are due to cardiac issues. […] Dr. Pallone says the most common cause of fainting in people with low blood pressure is taking too much of their medicationeven if theyve been taking it for years. […] Blood pressure medications, such as alpha-blockers, beta-blockers or certain antihypertensive drugs, work by relaxing blood vessels, reducing heart rate or decreasing fluid volume. When taken in large amounts, or combined inappropriately, they can cause blood pressure to drop too low, which, as Dr. Pallone explains, can cause fainting. […] POTS is a condition that can happen when people change positions, particularly, when they stand up. Blood isnt effectively pumped against gravity up to the brain because of a dysregulated autonomic nervous system.
- #38 Vertigo, Dizziness & Low Blood Pressure | Parkinson’s Foundationhttps://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/non-movement-symptoms/vertigo
Dizziness and vertigo are commonly reported symptoms in people with Parkinsons disease (PD). Dizziness is a term used to describe a range of sensations, such as being on the verge of fainting, feeling woozy, weak or unsteady. […] When orthostatic hypotension is related to a neurologic disorder like Parkinsons, its called neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH). Damage caused by nervous system disorders, including Parkinsons, can result in the nervous system not being able to make or release norepinephrine, a chemical that constricts blood vessels and raises blood pressure. This causes dizziness or lightheadedness. […] In early Parkinson’s, you might not notice dizziness, but experience foggy thinking or memory problems. […] Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension tends to be underdiagnosed. It is usually identified because people experience dizziness or lightheadedness when they stand up.
- #39 Fainting – treatments, symptoms, causes and prevention | healthdirecthttps://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fainting
Fainting can be the sign of something simple, or of a more serious a medical condition, like a heart or brain disorder. […] You should call an ambulance if you or someone near you has fainted and they have severe bleeding or injury, had irregular heartbeat, chest pains, shortness of breath or palpitations before fainting, have a severe headache, ongoing blurred vision, slurred speech or feel disoriented, fainted whilst sitting or lying down, fainted more than once, or took longer than a few minutes to regain consciousness, have a diagnosed heart condition, did not feel warning signs beforehand, are over 60 years old. […] If you see someone faint and they are unconscious follow DRSABCD. […] If you fainted, you should avoid driving or operating machinery until you have discussed your fainting with your doctor. […] You can try to prevent yourself from fainting: Change positions slowly, especially when moving from a lying to a standing position. […] Keep a healthy diet. Have regular meals. Drink plenty of water unless you have been advised not to. […] Avoid triggers that cause you to faint.
- #40 Syncope or Fainting – Cardiac causes, symptoms, diagnosis & treatmenthttp://www.krishnacardiac.com/dis_conditions/s_syn.htm
Syncope may be caused by the following cardiac conditions: Massive acute myocardial infarction (heart attack); Aortic stenosis – a narrowing of the heart valve that lies between the heart’s left ventricle (lower chamber) and the aorta. This narrowing restricts blood flow to the body. Fainting usually occurs after exertion; Pulmonary hypertension – a condition characterized by elevated pressure in the arteries that supply blood to your lungs; Tetralogy of Fallot – a congenital condition that consists of four cardiovascular defects. Tetralogy of Fallot usually necessitates surgical correction; and Carotid sinus sensitivity. […] If you experience syncope due to carotid sinus sensitivity, your doctor may recommend that you wear loose collars and that you turn your whole body (instead of merely your head), when looking to one side.
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- #41 Fainting (Syncope): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Preventionhttps://www.medicinenet.com/fainting/article.htm
Fainting is related to pregnancy. Likely explanations include compression of the inferior vena cava (the large vein that returns blood to the heart) by the enlarging uterus and by orthostatic hypotension. […] Anemia (low red blood cell count), whether it occurs acutely from bleeding or gradually for a variety of reasons, can cause fainting because there aren’t enough red blood cells to deliver oxygen to the brain. […] Dehydration, or lack of water in the body can similarly cause fainting or syncope. […] In young people, especially athletes, fainting or syncope can occur because of abnormal thickening of parts of the heart muscle (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). […] Abnormalities with the heart valves can also cause fainting or syncope. […] Structural problems with the heart can cause fainting or syncope, either because there is a problem with the ability of the heart to adequately pump blood or because of valve problems.
- #42 6 Common Causes of Fainting and Dizziness: NY Neurology Associates: Neurologistshttps://www.nyneurologists.com/blog/6-common-causes-of-fainting-and-dizziness
Individuals with heart problems can cause a reduced supply of blood to the brain. In this instance, the fainting is a symptom of the underlying heart condition. Individuals with known cardiac issues are most likely to have heart-related fainting. Fainting spells that happen repeatedly or that have a sudden onset should be checked in order to rule out a heart condition. […] Strokes occur when a blockage prevents adequate blood flow from reaching the brain. This can result in a loss of consciousness due to the reduced blood flow. […] When blood sugar drops too low, the body cannot function properly, which can result in fainting. Eating regularly and managing issues such as diabetes can address. […] Fainting spells are typically not a cause for a concern. However, because fainting can be an indicator for a serious medical issue, it is important to seek medical attention.
- #43https://www.advocatehealth.com/health-services/advocate-heart-institute/conditions/syncope
Vasovagal syncope causes you to faint when you see blood or experience other emotional distress. Your heart rate and blood pressure drop suddenly, leading to reduced blood flow to your brain, which causes you to lose consciousness. […] Neurologic syncope is much less common than other types of syncope. It can happen when you have a neurological condition such as a seizure, stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a ministroke. […] Depending on what caused your syncopal episode, your personalized treatment plan may include: Dietary changes such as eating more often, drinking more fluids, consuming more potassium or sodium, or avoiding caffeine or alcohol.
- #44 Vertigo, Dizziness & Low Blood Pressure | Parkinson’s Foundationhttps://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/non-movement-symptoms/vertigo
If you receive a diagnosis of nOH, talk to your doctor about reducing or eliminating certain medications (such as antihypertensives, medications that bring down blood pressure, and some dopaminergic medications, those that boost parts of the brain influenced by dopamine). […] Other common drugs associated with dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation) include anticonvulsants, antihypertensives, antibiotics, antidepressants, antipsychotics, pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs. […] A surgical procedure for PD, deep brain simulation (DBS) can be associated with dizziness or vertigo. Either symptom can emerge soon after surgery. […] Sudden onset of dizziness, usually in the presence of other sudden onset neurological symptoms, could possibly be a transient ischemic attack TIA (a brief stroke-like attack) or stroke. […] Dizziness and vertigo are not unique to Parkinsons and can have many other causes. Symptoms can be caused by anxiety, cold, flu, dehydration, heart conditions, migraine, among others. Tell your doctor if you regularly experience dizziness or vertigo.
- #45 Fainting: What It Feels Like and What Causes Ithttps://www.webmd.com/brain/understanding-fainting-basics
This type of fainting is more common in the elderly, people who recently had a lengthy illness that kept them in bed, and people who have poor muscle tone. […] If you faint a lot, you should visit your doctor to make sure it is not from an underlying health condition. […] Fainting, or syncope, is a temporary loss of consciousness caused by a lowered blood flow to the brain. Various conditions can trigger fainting, ranging from mild to serious. These include heart irregularities, low blood sugar, anemia, and nervous system issues that affect blood pressure regulation. If you faint regularly, be sure to talk to your doctor to make sure a medical condition isn’t causing it.
- #46 Cardiac-related Syncope (Fainting) – Brigham and Women’s Hospitalhttps://www.brighamandwomens.org/heart-and-vascular-center/diseases-and-conditions/syncope-fainting
The sudden, transient, loss of consciousness in an individual is known as syncope or fainting. Syncope typically lasts for seconds or minutes and is usually followed by a complete recovery. […] For most people, syncope occurs once or twice in a lifetime; for others, various medical conditions may lead to numerous fainting spells throughout their life. […] It is always important to see a doctor if you have fainted. The doctor will need to know the history surrounding the event, which is very important when trying to determine the cause of the syncope. […] Many benign fainting spells are triggered by a vasovagal reaction (a sudden, transient drop in blood pressure resulting in a temporary loss of consciousness), which typically occurs during activities such as eating, urinating, defecating, or standing for long periods. […] Older people are at higher risk for serious conditions and diseases that may lead to syncope. People with known heart conditions, alcohol or drug problems, known seizure disorders, diabetes, or neurological disorders are more likely to have fainting spells.
- #47 Fainting (Syncope) | Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatmenthttps://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/f/fainting
Fainting (syncope) is common during childhood in healthy adolescents and young adults. Around 20% of young adults report having fainted at least once. […] Dizziness, muffled hearing and visual changes (such as blacking out) often happen before fainting. Many patients complain of these symptoms without syncope. It is more common to have these symptoms when it is hot or when changing positions from sitting or lying down to standing. […] Fainting (syncope) is caused by a sudden decrease in blood pressure. For a moment, the brain does not have the needed amount of oxygen. […] These changes result in low blood pressure (hypotension). This leads to dizziness and fainting. […] Most patients with neurally mediated syncope will outgrow their symptoms. But this may take several years.
- #48https://www.4hcm.org/symptoms/fainting
Some arrhythmias can cause you to lose consciousness. […] If your obstruction is severe enough or you have severe valve disease, it may sometimes cause very low blood pressure in your brain. […] Some common problems with reflexes can cause syncope. […] If you are obstructed, this greatly increases your gradient and can be dangerous. […] Patients with diabetes or amyloidosis can also be prone to orthostatic hypotension, because these diseases may affect their nervous system’s ability to control blood pressure and blood pooling in the veins. […] There are neurological causes of fainting as well. Seizures and transient ischemic attacks („mini-strokes”) are less common than the heart-related causes. […] To be safe, treat every case of fainting as a medical emergency until the cause has been determined. […] Talk with your doctor. If you completely lose consciousness, when you awaken you should certainly seek medical assistance.
- #49 Fainting: Causes, Treatment, & Diagnosis- K Healthhttps://khealth.com/learn/symptom/fainting/
While syncope is sometimes caused by an underlying medical issue, that’s not always the case. […] There are many factors that can lead to fainting, even in otherwise healthy individuals. […] A common symptom of people who suffer from anxiety disorders, fainting can occur as a result of hyperventilation. […] When you sit up or stand up too quickly, your blood pressure drops, resulting in less blood flow to your brain which can cause fainting. […] Pre-existing heart conditions, like heart rhythm disturbances or severe hypotension, can cause cardiac syncope. […] When a person’s carbon dioxide blood levels fall from breathing too quickly, the result is a decrease of blood flow to the brain, which can cause fainting. […] Most of the time, people feel warning signs before experiencing a fainting episode.
- #50 Blackouts/Fainting – Causes, Symptoms & Treatment – LCChttps://www.londoncardiovascularclinic.co.uk/cardiology-info/symptoms-diagnosis/blackout
Fainting is uncommon after early childhood but can still occur in some individuals, especially in stressful or hot conditions. […] Sometimes, the cause is unrelated to the heart, and further evaluation by a neurologist may be necessary to rule out conditions like epilepsy. […] Loss of Consciousness: Brief episodes where the individual loses awareness and collapses. […] Fainting: Sudden loss of consciousness, often triggered by exertion. […] Fainting: Sudden episodes of fainting, often triggered by standing for extended periods. […] Fainting is often caused by a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure. […] Fainting can occur due to emotional stress, prolonged standing, or heat exposure. […] Fainting can be indicated if there is a significant rise in heart rate more than 30 beats per minute or exceeding 120 bpm within 10 minutes of standing up from a seated or lying position, accompanied by typical symptoms. […] Treating blackouts and fainting depends on the underlying cause.
- #51 Fainting (Syncope): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Preventionhttps://www.medicinenet.com/fainting/article.htm
Fainting, „blacking out,” or syncope is the temporary loss of consciousness followed by the return to full wakefulness. This loss of consciousness may be accompanied by a loss of muscle tone that can result in falling or slumping over. […] For fainting or syncope to occur, either the reticular activating system loses its blood supply, or both hemispheres of the brain are deprived of blood, oxygen, or glucose. If blood sugar levels are normal blood flow must be briefly disrupted to the whole brain or to the reticular activating system for fainting to occur. […] Fainting causes a decrease in blood flow to the brain because the heart fails to pump the blood. […] Vasovagal syncope is one of the most common causes of fainting. […] Pain can stimulate the vagus nerve and is a common cause of fainting (vasovagal syncope).
- #52 Causes of Fainting: Reasons for Passing Outhttps://www.verywellhealth.com/fainting-5409213
Episodes of syncope are common in pregnant people, due to both hormonal changes affecting blood vessels and physical changes including the blood volume in the body. […] Treatment for a condition that causes fainting will depend on the underlying cause. […] Fainting is a sudden loss of consciousness from a lack of blood flow to the brain. It can be caused by many things, including dehydration, shock, too much alcohol, and even anxiety. While a fainting spell usually doesn’t last for long, it can be associated with a life-threatening event like a heart attack. […] People who have experienced multiple fainting spells should see a healthcare provider to learn the cause.
- #53 Fainting Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment | CVG Cares Cardiology – CVGhttps://cvgcares.com/conditions/fainting/
Fainting can also be caused by certain medications such as diuretics, calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, nitrates, antipsychotics, and antihistamines. […] In order to determine the cause of your fainting spells, your doctor will ask for a complete description of your symptoms and the events leading up to your syncope episodes. […] However, your doctor may want to conduct further tests to determine if the fainting is related to a heart or brain problem. […] To prevent fainting, it may help to make a fist, tense your arms, cross your legs, or squeeze your thighs together. […] Depending on the cause of your syncope episode, you may experience certain symptoms before or during the episode. These symptoms include dizziness, nausea, weakness, sweating, blurred vision, headaches, shortness of breath, and incontinence. […] Collectively these symptoms are referred to as a prodrome, and if identified the patient may be able to use the appearance of the symptoms as a warning to sit down and avoid the faint.
- #54 Faintinghttps://www.mayoclinic.org/first-aid/first-aid-fainting/basics/art-20056606
Fainting occurs when the brain doesn’t receive enough blood for a brief time. This causes loss of consciousness. Consciousness is usually regained quickly. […] Fainting might have no medical significance. Or the cause can be a serious disorder, occasionally involving the heart. Therefore, treat loss of consciousness as a medical emergency until the symptoms are relieved and the cause is known. Talk to your health care provider if you faint more than once. […] If the person doesn’t regain consciousness within one minute, call 911 or your local emergency number.
- #55 Fainting (Syncope): Definition, Symptoms, Causes & Possible Treatmentshttps://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/symptoms-and-conditions/fainting
A number of conditions can cause you to feel dizzy or lightheaded, which occurs when the brain does not get enough oxygen. These include hunger, fatigue, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and anxiety. Fainting can also occur from violent coughing fits or straining from urination or a bowel movement. […] The most common cause of fainting, vasovagal fainting, is usually not a serious problem. However, there are times when you should see a doctor in case there is a more serious cause. Make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible if you have never fainted before and faint for no apparent reason. […] To diagnose your condition, your doctor or licensed healthcare practitioner will ask you several questions related to your fainting including: […] The goal of treating syncope is to avoid future episodes of fainting. Treatments for fainting depend on the type of syncope and the underlying cause. […] Because fainting can be due to serious diseases, failure to seek treatment can result in serious complications and permanent damage.
- #56 FAINTING OR SYNCOPE: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW | Mya Carehttps://myacare.com/blog/fainting-or-syncope-all-you-need-to-know
The most common symptom of fainting is a temporary loss of consciousness. Other symptoms may occur before or after syncope, including: Nausea or vomiting, Confusion or disorientation, Loss of bowel control, Headache, Chest pain, Shortness of breath, Irregular heartbeat, Seizures. […] If you experience fainting episodes, it is essential to see your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. […] Treatment for fainting depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, syncope requires no acute treatment and will resolve independently. […] If caused by an underlying medical condition, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes, compression stockings, prescription drugs, or surgery. These primarily improve overall cardiovascular and metabolic health. […] Fainting, also known as syncope, is a common occurrence that can happen to anyone. It is usually not a cause for concern and does not require medical attention. Prevent syncope by avoiding triggers, remaining hydrated, and keeping blood glucose levels stable. If you experience frequent fainting spells, it is vital to seek medical attention.
- #57 Faintinghttps://www2.hse.ie/conditions/fainting/
Fainting usually happens suddenly. […] Symptoms can include: […] you have recently fainted more than once.
- #58 Fainting: Causes, diagnosis, and treatmenthttps://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/182524
Fainting, or syncope, is a sudden and temporary loss of consciousness. It usually happens when there is a slight decrease in the amount of oxygen reaching the brain. […] Fainting is not usually serious, but sometimes, it can indicate an underlying medical issue. People should treat every case of fainting as a medical emergency until they have uncovered the cause and treated the symptoms. […] Health experts associate fainting with decreased oxygen supply to the brain, but usually not to a degree that is dangerous. […] A drop in blood pressure slows the heartbeat and pulse rate. This temporarily affects the brain’s blood and oxygen supply. […] If a person faints and may have one of these conditions, they should seek medical attention. […] If fainting could be due to an underlying health condition, a person should seek medical attention.
- #59 Fainting symptoms but did not faint (presyncope)https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/fainting-symptoms-but-didnt-faint
When a person has fainting symptoms but does not faint, it is known as presyncope. Presyncope is the stage before fainting, which can make someone feel lightheaded, weak, warm, sweaty, or nauseous. Heart palpitations and blurry vision may also occur. […] Syncope is the medical term for fainting. Presyncope, or near syncope, means a person has almost reached the point of fainting. It is the stage that occurs just before losing consciousness. […] Someone with presyncope may feel the effects for seconds or minutes. Some people believe that presyncope is less serious than syncope, but this is not necessarily the case. Some causes of presyncope are relatively mild, while others can be life threatening. […] A reduction in the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain can result in presyncope. This reduction is known as cerebral hypoperfusion. This can occur for many reasons, but broadly, the causes can be due to cardiac or noncardiac factors.
- #60 Symptoms and treatment – Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trusthttps://www.newcastle-hospitals.nhs.uk/services/falls-and-syncope-service/symptoms-and-treatment/
Dizziness can cover a range of feelings: […] Severe attacks of dizziness can lead to falls, and injuries resulting from these falls. […] Presyncope occurs when a person almost, but doesnât actually lose consciousness, due to a reduced flow of oxygenated blood to the brain. Symptoms of a presyncopal episode can include: […] Syncope is when a person loses consciousness (faints) as the result of reduced oxygenated blood flow to the brain. […] There are sometimes warning signs (prodromes) which can occur from between seconds to nearly an hour before the person faints, including: […] When a person faints they often injure themselves as a result of falling, often without trying to protect themselves from injury. These injuries can often cause the person more health difficulties than the syncope itself. […] Whilst an episode of syncope can be frightening to the person experiencing it and their families who often witness it, the majority of causes for syncope are easily identified and treated.
- #61 Fainting symptoms but did not faint (presyncope)https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/fainting-symptoms-but-didnt-faint
Presyncope can occur due to mechanical problems with the heart, or an irregular heart rhythm. If this is the case, presyncope could signify a more serious condition. […] A person with cardiac presyncope may experience palpitations. It can happen while they are sitting, lying down, or exercising. […] Treatment for presyncope varies depending on the cause and severity of symptoms. For example, it could involve fluids and rest for dehydration, or medication or dosage changes for side effects of drugs. […] If the cause is harder to identify or presyncope keeps happening, doctors will need to investigate further. If they believe a person is at risk of adverse outcomes, they may decide to admit the individual to the hospital. […] Presyncope occurs when a person feels like they are about to faint but do not actually lose consciousness. Someone with presyncope may experience lightheadedness, weakness, excessive sweating, and heart palpitations. […] There are many potential causes of presyncope. Most are relatively mild and treatable, but if the cause is heart-related, a person may need to go to the hospital.
- #62 Fainting training – Sudden Illness video | ProFirstAidhttps://www.profirstaid.com/training/video/fainting
Syncope can occur without warning. Or there could be some early signs, such as dizziness, the feeling of being lightheaded, or feeling like your about to faint. Together, these symptoms have a name presyncope. […] Physical counter-pressure maneuvers help raise the patient’s blood pressure through skeletal muscle contraction and, in many cases, will resolve symptoms of faintness.
- #63 Fainting: Causes, Types, and Preventionhttps://www.healthline.com/health/fainting
If you have a history of fainting, try to learn whats causing you to faint so you can avoid those triggers. Feeling lightheaded and weak and having the sensation of spinning are warning signs of fainting. If you notice any of these signs, sit and put your head between your knees to help get blood to your brain. […] When someone near you faints, you can encourage blood flow to their head by raising their feet above the level of their heart. […] You should call 911 or your local emergency services immediately if someone has fainted and isnt breathing, doesnt regain consciousness within a few minutes, has fallen and sustained an injury or is bleeding, has no history of fainting and is over age 50. […] If you have no prior history of fainting and have fainted multiple times, your doctor will want to determine if an underlying medical condition is the cause. Diagnosis typically starts with EKG. Other tests that may be used to find out why you passed out include: Holter monitor, Echocardiogram, Electroencephalogram. […] Treatment for fainting will depend on your doctors diagnosis. If there are no underlying medical conditions that are causing you to faint, you generally wont need treatment and the long-term outlook is good.