Syncope Specialist

What is syncope?

Syncope is the medical term for fainting or passing out. The temporary loss of consciousness usually results from a decrease in blood flow to the brain. 

Syncope often occurs when there’s a drop in blood pressure or heart rate. Fainting is common and affects people of all ages.

Though the underlying cause of your fainting may not be life-threatening, syncope could be a symptom of a more serious health problem and shouldn’t be ignored. The team of cardiologists at Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates can help you get the answers you need.

What causes syncope?

Syncope is a symptom that may develop from a number of causes. Common causes that are not life-threatening include dehydration, exhaustion, or getting up too quickly from a sitting position. 

However, serious cardiac conditions can cause syncope, including bradycardia and tachycardia. Left undiagnosed and untreated, these heart conditions increase your risk of sudden cardiac death.

Recurrent syncope is also common in older adults with congestive heart failure and atrial fibrillation (AFib).

What can I expect during a syncope evaluation?

When you visit Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates for a syncope evaluation, you can expect a comprehensive exam. The state-of-the-art cardiology practice performs many cardiac tests on-site, so you get the answers you need quickly.

During your evaluation, your provider asks detailed questions about your syncope, including when and how often it occurs and the circumstances surrounding your fainting spells. They also review your medical history, family history, and any medications and supplements you take.

Your provider then performs a physical exam and may request various diagnostic tests to assess heart health and function, such as:

• Blood test
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)
• Stress test
• Echocardiogram
• Holter and event monitoring

In some cases, the team may perform a tilt test. During this diagnostic procedure, you lie on a table and the team closely monitors your heart rate and blood pressure as they tilt the table, keeping your head in an upright position. 

How is syncope treated?

The team at Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates creates customized syncope treatment plans based on the underlying cause of your syncope, medical history, and overall health. Your treatment plan may include:

• Diet and fluid modification
• Compression stockings
• Getting up more slowly from a sitting position
• Disease-specific medications
• Pacemaker
• Implantable cardiac defibrillator

Your cardiologist at Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates spends time talking to you about your diagnosis and treatment options. They work closely with you to develop a plan that fits your needs and lifestyle and improves your heart health. 

To schedule an evaluation at Arizona Heart Arrhythmia Associates, call the office nearest you or request an appointment online today.