In Houston, Texas, many people struggle with syncope, a sudden loss of consciousness, and muscle tone. A profound drop usually follows it in blood pressure. Syncopes can occur due to many different conditions and are often temporary. Some syncopes may also be permanent, such as cerebral vascular accidents (CVA) or cerebral hemorrhages. The most common type of syncope is vasovagal syncope, which is caused by a drop in blood pressure and heart rate. Talking with a Houston syncope specialist is, therefore, a good thing. Here are significant types of syncopes many don’t know.
Situational Syncope
Situational syncope is a type of syncope caused by a particular circumstance or situation. This type of syncope can be due to emotional stress, such as when witnessing a traumatic event, or physical stress, such as standing for a long time. Many times, situational syncope resolves on its own without any treatment.
Vasovagal Syncope
Vasovagal syncope is the most common type of syncope caused by a drop in blood pressure and heart rate. This type of syncope is usually benign and resolves on its own. However, there are some cases where vasovagal syncope can be severe, such as when it leads to a fall or seizure.
Neurally Mediated Syncope
Neurally mediated syncope is a type of syncope caused by a problem with the autonomic nervous system. This type of syncope can be due to conditions such as neurally mediated hypotension (NMH) or vasovagal syncope. Treatment for neurally mediated syncope usually involves medications to help stabilize blood pressure.
Orthostatic Syncope
Orthostatic syncope is a type of syncope that is caused by a sudden change in position, such as when standing up from a lying down position. This type of syncope can be due to conditions such as orthostatic hypotension or vasovagal syncope. Treatment for orthostatic syncope usually involves medications to help stabilize blood pressure.
When dealing with orthostatic syncope, it is essential to avoid sudden movement when rising. This can be done by slowly sitting up and then standing up. You should also avoid standing in one place for too long. If you feel like you are about to faint, lie down immediately.
Cardiac Syncope
Cardiac syncope is a type of syncope caused by a problem with the heart. This type of syncope can be due to conditions such as arrhythmias, cardiomyopathies, or heart attacks. Treatment for cardiac syncope usually involves medications or surgery to treat the underlying condition.
Reflex Syncope
Reflex syncope is a type of syncope arising from a sudden change in position, such as when standing up from a lying down position. This type of syncope can be due to conditions such as orthostatic hypotension or vasovagal syncope. Treatment for reflex syncope usually involves medications to help stabilize blood pressure.
Cerebral Vascular Accident (CVA)
A cerebral vascular accident, or CVA, is a type of syncope caused by a problem with the blood vessels in the brain. This type of syncope can be due to conditions such as strokes or transient ischemic attacks.
It’s essential to understand the different types of syncopes and how they may be caused to ensure that you provide your patient with the appropriate treatment. For example, some cases of vasovagal syncope are benign, while others can lead to a fall or seizure. Seeking guidance from a syncope specialist is a great thing.
Johnson