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 suffering from syncope or fainting.

• Related article: "The button that connects and disconnects consciousness"

Defining syncope

Syncope or fainting is defined as a transient 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.

It is a frequent 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, a series of symptoms can be found in the first place that warn the body that something is not working well before losing consciousness, so that we can find that syncope usually acts along two moments.

Loss of consciousness is usually short, 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 the entry into a coma or even culminate in the death of the patient.

Its two phases

As we have seen, although it can happen that the loss of consciousness is sudden, in a large number of cases the person suffering from syncope does not simply lose consciousness, but rather presents a series of symptoms leading up to your collapse that alert the individual that something is happening. That is why we can speak of syncope itself and presyncope.

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 that is becoming increasingly blurred while points of light are perceived (whose color may vary depending on the person). It is common to have headache and break out into a profusion of 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 to this situation.

Syncope

Syncope itself occurs when the subject loses consciousness, that is, when he faints. In this situation muscle hypotonia occurs total or almost total that causes the subject to fall to the ground if he is not grasped 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 for which a syncope can occur can be multiple and variable. Specifically, we can find three large groups depending on whether we are facing syncope caused by cardiac alterations or other types of causes, the latter group being the most frequent.

Cardiogenic syncope

Syncope of cardiac origin They are usually the most dangerous and life-threatening type of syncope, because the loss of consciousness is caused by an alteration of the organism at the cardiovascular level.

This type of syncope can come from the blockage or acceleration of the atria or ventricles or of the different veins and arteries. A) Yes, can occur in cases of arrhythmia such as tachycardias and bradycardias, and structural heart disease

Syncope due to orthostatic hypotension

This type of syncope is about episodes of loss of consciousness that 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 with episodes of hypoglycemia (malnutrition or diabetes are usually causes of this type of syncope), dehydration, blood loss due to bleeding or use of certain drugs or substances. Its causes must be dealt with very quickly or else the life of the subject may be endangered.

Reflex or neuromedial syncope

It is the most common type of syncope and known, present in most of the population without any known pathology.

In them, vasovagal syncope stands out, which comes from stimulation of the vagus nerve generally due to situations such as a high temperature, standing or making movements that are too fast, physical pain, anxiety or the experience of extreme emotions or situations. Situational syncope, which is linked to a specific situation, is also common.

Treatment

Syncope or fainting is generally a temporary disorder 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, a sudden syncope due to cardiac causes could be a symptom of heart failure and end with the death of the patient.

In cases not derived from heart problems, the treatment to be applied may change depending on its cause concrete. Many of them are produced by dips in tension that are not dangerous and have spontaneous recovery, such as those produced by vasovagal reactions.

However, or may occasionally occur as a result of hazardous 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 it is produce the loss of consciousness, as well as hydration and rest for a few moments, watching the sugar level in blood.

Remedies

In case of loss of consciousness glucagon administration may be necessary (not insulin, which is usually the injection carried by those affected by this metabolic disorder, since it would have an opposite and harmful effect) by the medical services or an acquaintance or relative who knows the amount to manage.

In cases that are due to high anxiety, it is recommended to avoid the stressful situation temporarily, although if it is recurrent it might be advisable to do tasks that allow progressive habituation and adaptation to the anxious situation. Tranquilizers and beta-blockers can also be used if necessary. If it occurs in the elderly and when faced 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, the performance of surgery or the implantation of a pacemaker.

Bibliographic references:

• Moya, A.; Rivas, N.; Sarrias, A.; Pérez, J. & Rova, I. (2012). Syncope. Rev. Esp. Cariol. vol.65, 8. Barcelona.

• Peinado, R. (2014). Presyncope: A symptom with the same prognostic significance as syncope? Rev. Esp. Cardiol. Vol.57 (7); 613-6.

• Gutiérrez, O. (1996). Syncope: Diagnosis and Treatment. Rev. Peru Cardiol.; XXII (1): 30-38.