Fainting (Syncope): A Warning Sign of Possible Heart Problems
Did you know that one in three people experience fainting at least once in their lives, often without understanding why? Syncope, commonly known as fainting or "passing out," is a temporary loss of consciousness, usually triggered by a lack of adequate blood flow to the brain. This occurs most often when blood pressure drops too low, preventing the heart from delivering enough oxygen-rich blood to the brain. Around 70% of syncope cases stem from underlying heart issues, while the remaining 30% are linked to physiological or psychological factors.
What Causes Syncope?
Syncope, or fainting, can result from a range of causes, from benign to potentially life-threatening. Harmless triggers often include overheating, dehydration, excessive sweating, or intense physical exertion.
The most common type, known as "uncomplicated" syncope, often occurs when someone quickly moves from lying down to sitting or standing. Prolonged standing can also cause blood to pool in the legs, reducing blood flow to the brain and leading to fainting. Emotional stress, intense pain, or even the sight of needles or blood can slow the heart rate and widen blood vessels, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure (hypotension) and resulting in fainting.
Situational Causes vs. Heart-Related Causes of Syncope
While fainting due to situational factors is usually temporary, fainting triggered by heart abnormalities is more complex and can be serious. Certain heart conditions, such as bradycardia, tachycardia, or blood flow obstructions, can lead to syncope and require medical attention.
Bradycardia: This occurs when the heart rate is unusually slow (fewer than 60 beats per minute). Potential causes include issues with the sinoatrial node (the heart’s natural pacemaker), disruptions in cardiac electrical signals, hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone), a history of heart disease or heart attack, and side effects from certain heart medications.
Tachycardia: This happens when the heart rate is abnormally fast (over 100 beats per minute). It can be triggered by factors such as anxiety, fear, intense physical activity, fever, certain medications, anaemia, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), prior heart damage, severe bleeding, restricted blood flow to the heart, cardiomyopathy, cocaine use, or sarcoidosis (an inflammatory disease).
If syncope is suspected to be heart-related, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider.
Symptoms of Syncope
• Blacking out
• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Fainting, especially after meals or exercise
• Feeling unsteady or weak when standing
• Vision changes
• Headaches
If a heart abnormality is identified as the cause of syncope, treatment may involve medications to manage irregular heart rhythms, a pacemaker to address a slow heartbeat, or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator for severe rhythm issues.
At Oxford Hospital Jalandhar, we provide comprehensive care, bringing together advanced technology, highly skilled cardiologists, and specially trained support staff—all under one roof. Equipped with the latest diagnostic tests and high-end technology, our team ensures accurate diagnoses and optimal treatment options.
Fainting can signal a more serious underlying issue, so it’s essential not to ignore the symptoms. Consult a physician promptly for appropriate care.
