Diseases

Syncope (Fainting, Syncope)

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Fainting, which medical professionals call syncope (pronounced sin-ko-pea), is a temporary loss of consciousness. Fainting is Caused by a temporary loss of the brain's blood supply and can be a sign of a more serious condition. People of any age can faint, but elderly persons may have a serious underlying cause.

SYMPTOMS

Dizziness., Weakness., Sweating., Blurred vision, seeing spots., Headache., Sensation that the room is moving., Ringing in the ears (see tinnitus), nausea, vomiting.

CAUSES

Fear or other emotional trauma., severe pain., a sudden drop in blood pressure., low blood sugar due to diabetes., hyperventilation., dehydration., standing in one position for too long., standing up too quickly.