Syncope (fainting): Symptoms, Types, Causes And What To Do
We are standing, it is very hot, we have just done an intense exercise… suddenly we feel weak, dizzy, we begin to see only red or blue dots until we finally fall to the ground, losing consciousness for a few seconds. This is an example of what would happen if we were experiencing syncope or fainting.
Syncope or fainting is defined as a temporary episode of loss of consciousness which happens suddenly and unexpectedly due to a decrease in cerebral flow to the brain and whose origin can be found in a large number of causes.
This is a common symptom in all types of population that does not have to reflect a disorder, although on some occasions it may indicate or be given by the presence of coronary pathologies or metabolic disorders.
Generally, you can first find a series of symptoms that warn the body that something is not working well before losing consciousness, so we can find that syncope usually occurs over two periods.
The loss of consciousness is usually short, and can be almost imperceptible and last a few seconds or a few minutes. However, in extreme conditions in which the causes of loss of consciousness are serious pathologies, this loss of consciousness may reflect entry into a coma or even culminate in the death of the patient.
Its two phases
As we have seen, although the loss of consciousness may be sudden, in a large number of cases the person who suffers from syncope does not simply lose consciousness, but rather has a series of symptoms prior to his collapse that alert the individual that something is happening. That is why we can talk about syncope itself and presyncope.
Presyncope is defined as the set of symptoms that occur before the subject loses consciousness. In these previous moments the subject experience a deep feeling of dizziness gastrointestinal discomfort, alterations in thermal perception and the sensation of muscle weakness.
One of the most common symptoms is tunnel vision which becomes increasingly blurry while points of light are perceived (whose color may vary depending on the person). It is common to have a headache and break out into a profuse sweat.
Depending on the case, complete loss of consciousness may not appear if the person manages to rest, calm down, or resolve the reason that led them to that situation.
Syncope
Syncope itself occurs when the subject loses consciousness, that is, when they faint. In this situation muscle hypotonia occurs total or almost total that causes the subject to fall to the ground if they are not grabbed or supported somewhere, along with the temporary loss of consciousness. The pupils dilate and the pulse slows.
Types of syncope
As we have said, the causes of syncope can be multiple and variable. Specifically, we can find three large groups depending on whether we are dealing with syncope caused by cardiac disorders or other types of causes, with this last group being the most frequent.
Cardiogenic syncope
Syncope of cardiac origin They are usually the most dangerous and potentially fatal type of syncope, because the loss of consciousness originates from an alteration of the body at the cardiovascular level.
This type of syncope can come from blockage or acceleration of the atria or ventricles or the different veins and arteries. So, can occur in cases of arrhythmia such as tachycardias and bradycardias, and structural heart disease
This type of syncope is about episodes of loss of consciousness that They can also be potentially dangerous. In this case, there is a reduction in orthostatic tension or the ability to regulate blood pressure.
It usually occurs due to episodes of hypoglycemia (malnutrition or diabetes are usually causes of this type of syncope), dehydration, blood loss due to bleeding or consumption of certain drugs or substances. Its causes must be treated very quickly or else the subject’s life may be in danger.
Reflex or neuromediated syncope
This is the most common type of syncope and known, present in the majority of the population without any known pathology.
Among them, vasovagal syncope stands out, which comes from the stimulation of the vagus nerve, generally due to situations such as high temperature, standing or making too rapid movements, physical pain, anxiety or the experience of extreme emotions or situations. Situational syncope is also common, which is linked to a specific situation.
Treatment
Syncope or fainting is generally a temporary alteration in which the sufferer ends up recovering without any type of sequelae. However, it is necessary to establish what the causes have been, especially in patients with previous heart problems. In fact, sudden syncope due to cardiac causes could be a symptom of heart failure and lead to the death of the patient.
In cases not derived from cardiac problems, The treatment to be applied may change depending on its cause. concrete. Many of them are produced by drops in tension that are not dangerous and have spontaneous recovery, such as those produced by vasovagal reactions.
However, sometimes they can occur as a result of dangerous conditions. such as hypoglycemia in people with diabetes. In this case, it is essential to quickly consume sugar or some food or drink that contains it before loss of consciousness occurs, as well as hydration and rest for a few moments, checking the blood sugar level.
Remedies
In case of loss of consciousness administration of glucagon may be necessary (not insulin, which is usually the injection given to those affected by this metabolic disorder, since it would have the opposite and harmful effect) by medical services or an acquaintance or close friend who knows the amount to be administered.
In cases that are due to high anxiety, it is recommended to temporarily avoid the stressful situation, although if it is recurrent it may be advisable to do tasks that allow for progressive habituation and adaptation to the anxiety situation. Tranquilizers and beta blockers can also be used if necessary. If it occurs in the elderly and with changes in position, the use of compression stockings that can help regulate blood flow is recommended.
In the case of heart conditions, it is necessary to the rapid intervention of medical services , who will carry out the most appropriate treatment according to the specific cause. This can range from the administration of anticoagulant, a defibrillator, surgery or the implantation of a pacemaker.
