Conditions
Syncope is the temporary loss of consciousness due to a sudden decline in blood flow to the brain. Syncope can occur in otherwise healthy people.
Description
Syncope is the temporary loss of consciousness due to a sudden decline in blood flow to the brain.
Cause
It may be caused by an irregular cardiac rate or rhythm or by changes of blood volume or distribution.
Symptoms
Syncope can occur in otherwise healthy people. The patient feels faint, dizzy, or lightheaded (presyncope), or loses consciousness (syncope).
Prognosis
Syncope is a dramatic event and can even be life-threatening if not treated appropriately. Generally, however, recovery is usually complete within minutes to hours.
Treatment
Non-cardiac syncope is treated acutely by lying down with the legs elevated. Infrequent episodes of non-cardiac syncope usually do not require treatment.