$Unique_ID{BRK00048}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{How to Tell "Syncope" From "Seizure"}
$Subject{syncope seizure epilepsy Nervous System seizures faint fainting
consciousness unconscious brain nerve disorders epileptic epileptics faints}
$Volume{F-1}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


How to Tell "Syncope" From "Seizure"


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QUESTION:  My daughter faints frequently.  I've tried to read all I can get my
hands on about possible causes of her trouble, but have become confused about
two words that I keep seeing.  Can you explain what they mean and how to tell
"syncope" from "seizure?"

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ANSWER:  Syncope (SIN ko pee), the medical term for fainting, may be preceded
by such symptoms as yawning, a feeling of warmth, flushing or sweating, blurry
vision, dizziness, or nausea.  This leads up to a gradual loss of
consciousness and a "soft," limp fall.  Although the person may look pale or
grayish, and may have low blood pressure and a slow heart beat, he or she will
resume consciousness without confusion, and will remember the event.
     A seizure comes on with no warning signs, although some people experience
an "aura" or premonition beforehand.  Loss of consciousness is sudden, causing
a "hard" or abrupt fall.  The person's color will be normal, but he or she is
likely to twitch or move oddly while unconscious.  Patients who have seizures
often are confused when they regain consciousness, and do not remember the
event.
     Seizures are associated with brain and nerve disorders, such as head
injuries and epilepsy.  Syncope can be caused by a wide variety of things,
some serious and some not.  Your concern and evident anxiety will only be
helped when you get answers that apply specifically to your daughter.  It is
always a good idea to consult a doctor about any kind of fainting or seizure,
especially if it happens repeatedly.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.