Syncope Treatment Services in Richardson TX

Understanding Syncope: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

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 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.

Types of Syncope

There are several different types of syncope. They are:

  • Vasovagal syncope (also called neurocardiogenic syncope). This is the most common type of syncope. Nearly half of syncope cases are the vasovagal type.
  • Situational syncope (a type of vasovagal syncope).
  • Postural or orthostatic syncope (also called postural hypotension).
  • Cardiac syncope.
  • Neurologic syncope.
  • Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).
  • Syncope with an unknown cause.

What is syncope (fainting)?

Syncope is a sudden, brief loss of consciousness and muscle strength caused by reduced blood flow to the brain—commonly known as fainting or passing out. Most episodes are temporary and resolve quickly.

What causes syncope?

There are three main types:

  • Reflex (neurally mediated): Triggered by stress, pain, dehydration, fear, or standing too long—often called vasovagal syncope
  • Orthostatic: Results from a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up—common in dehydration or certain medications
  • Cardiac: Caused by heart issues like arrhythmias, valve problems, or cardiomyopathy—this type is highest risk

What are warning signs before fainting?

Many people experience pre‑fainting (presyncope) symptoms hours or seconds beforehand:

  • Dizziness, lightheadedness
  • Pale, clammy skin
  • Blurred or tunnel vision, nausea
  • Feeling warm or sweaty
  • Brief twitching may occur but deep confusion after is rare

When should I seek medical attention?

See a doctor if:

  • You faint without clear triggers
  • You have heart disease, chest pain, or a family history of sudden death
  • Fainting occurs with irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, or low blood pressure These signs warrant tests: ECG, orthostatic blood pressure check, and possibly heart monitoring or hospitalization for cardiac causes

How is syncope treated or prevented?

Reflex syncope: Focus on avoiding triggers, using counter‑pressure maneuvers (e.g. leg crossing, fist clenching), increasing fluids/salt, compression stockings Orthostatic syncope: Lifestyle changes—rise slowly, stay hydrated, review medications—sometimes use fludrocortisone or midodrine wogensenneurology.com Cardiac syncope: Requires treating the underlying heart issue—could include pacemaker, medication, or surgery