Syncope

If you've ever fainted, you've experienced syncope. Although passing out usually isn't a sign of a serious health problem, it can be related to an issue with the heart in some cases. Fortunately, your Sugar Land, TX, cardiologist, Dr. Naim Al-Adli for Fort Bend Heart Center, can determine why you're experiencing syncope and offer helpful treatments.

Why does syncope happen?

Many things can cause you to faint. You might be more likely to pass out if you haven't eaten for a while, become dehydrated, or spend too much time in the hot sun. Some people faint at the sight of blood, while others pass out during times of extreme stress or if they're exhausted. Standing up too quickly can cause fainting or lightheadedness sometimes. As you get older, you may be more likely to faint.

Syncope can also occur if you have an irregular heartbeat, which happens when your heart beats slower or faster than normal or doesn't follow its usual rhythm.

Other heart-related causes of syncope can include:

  • An enlarged heart
  • Heart attack
  • A problem with a heart valve
  • A tear in the aorta, the biggest artery in your body

What should I do if I feel faint?

You'll probably notice a few warning signs if you are about to pass out. Tunnel vision, nausea, clammy skin, feeling hot or cold, dizziness, numbness, headache, or rapid heartbeat can happen before you faint.

If you notice any of these symptoms, lie down with your legs raised above the level of your head. Lying down may prevent fainting and can help you avoid hitting your head if you do pass out.

Call 911 if you feel faint and are experiencing chest pain, nausea, dizziness, pressure in your chest, shortness of breath, or pain in your jaw, back, arms, or neck.

When should I see a cardiologist?

If you fainted because you didn't eat or had a blood test, it's probably not necessary to schedule an appointment with your doctor. When you're not quite sure why you passed out or you've been fainting often, it's a good idea to pay a visit to your Sugar Land heart doctor.

In addition to performing an examination, reviewing your medical history, and discussing your symptoms, he may recommend a few tests that will provide information on your heart and the way it works. If a heart condition is a reason that you've been fainting, your cardiologist will recommend treatment options and lifestyle changes that will reduce or prevent further episodes of syncope.

Are you worried about syncope? Call your cardiologist in Sugar Land, TX, Dr. Naim Al-Adli of Fort Bend Heart Center, at (281) 265-8500‎ to schedule your appointment.

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