$Unique_ID{BRK02409}
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$Title{Which is More Dangerous, Fainting or Syncope?}
$Subject{fainting spells syncope swooning loss consciousness blood flowing
flow oxygen circulatory system brain heart ill defined symptoms symptom faint
spell syncopal attack attacks swoon conscious dizzy dizziness}
$Volume{G-1,G-3,N-1,N-3}
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Copyright (c) 1992,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Which is More Dangerous, Fainting or Syncope?


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QUESTION:  Which is the more dangerous condition, fainting or syncope?  My
mother has had several fainting spells lately which quickly passed, but her
doctor told her she had "syncope".  I am worried that this means something he
is not telling her, and hope that you can help me understand what may be wrong
with mother.  Thank you for your help.

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ANSWER:  Your problem is an easy one to solve as it is one of word
definitions, for both "syncope" and "fainting" are the same.  I could also add
the term "swooning" as well, for they all mean a sudden, but temporary loss of
consciousness.  It is not uncommon in older people, and occurs when they have
been sitting or lying down, and then quickly stand up.  This causes the blood
to pool in the lower parts of the body, reducing the amount of blood flowing
to the brain.  Since this decreases the amount of oxygen being carried to the
brain, the brain activity is altered and a loss of consciousness occurs.
Since this usually results in the person dropping to the floor, the head is
once again on a level with the heart.  Blood flow to the brain returns to
normal and consciousness returns quickly.  And for many people, that is the
end of the episode with no damage done.  However, when fainting episodes recur
frequently, medical investigation is necessary to determine the cause, as the
syncope may sometimes be the sign of problems with the heart.
     Now to your mother's problem.  Though fainting may occur as a result of
emotional stress, coughing attacks, over exertion and heat exhaustion, it
frequently is a result of a slowed or irregular heart beat.  Sometimes,
lowered blood pressure can be brought about by certain prescription
medication, such as diuretics and tranquilizers.  Adjusting the dosage of a
medication may rapidly reverse the situation.  Your mother may merely need to
adjust the way she arises from a sitting position to put everything in order,
but she was wise to consult with her doctor.  The only way to find out if
anything is being withheld from you is to ask the physician directly, as I do
not have enough information to provide you with that answer.

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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.