Syncope is a temporary loss of consciousness caused by a decrease in bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood flow to the brain. It can have multiple causes, which vary depending on the individual and the circumstances.
Read more: Syncope or loss of consciousness
The situational syncope
Situational Syncope
Situational syncope belongs to the family of reflex syncopes, just like vasovagal syncope.
The symptoms are the same: nausea, paleness, hot flashes, sweating, and a deep fatigue that may persist after the fainting episode.
As the name suggests, this type of syncope is triggered by a specific situation. It can occur, for example, during:
- straining during a bowel movement
- urination
- a severe coughing episode
- a forceful sneeze
- the recovery period after intense physical effort
In these moments, an exaggerated bodily response causes a sudden drop in bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood pressure or heart rate, which can lead to a temporary loss of consciousness.
What tests may be ordered?
The diagnosis of situational syncope is primarily based on the patient’s medical history and physical examination. However, to rule out other possible causes, a few tests are commonly recommended.
The first is usually an electrocardiogram (ECG). This simple, non-invasive test records the heart’s electrical activity and helps detect any irregularities in heart rhythm.
Next, a cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram) is often performed. This test uses sound waves to produce images of the heart’s chambers, valves, and muscle movements, providing important information about the heart’s structure and overall function.
In some cases, a 24-hour Holter monitor may be prescribed. This small, portable device continuously records the heart’s rhythm over a full day, offering valuable insight into how the heart behaves during regular daily activities.
Are there any health risks?
Situational syncope is generally harmless. It does not affect the heart or long-term health.
The main risk lies in the possibility of injury from falling, especially if the fainting episode occurs in a dangerous place or where there is no opportunity to sit or lie down quickly.
The Main Risk: Falling
As with other types of syncope, the primary danger is the risk of injury due to falling.
Depending on the circumstances, a sudden loss of consciousness can lead to trauma, especially if the person collapses onto a hard surface or in a hazardous environment (e.g., on stairs or while driving).
What Is the Treatment?
Anything that lowers bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood pressure can increase the risk of syncope. The main factors to monitor include:
- Dehydration
- Certain medications that lower bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood pressure
It is recommended to drink about 2 liters of fluids per day and not to restrict salt intake unless directed by a doctor.
Some practical tips
It’s important to stay alert in certain high-risk situations, especially those that can trigger syncope symptoms:
➤ For example, a man with prostate problems should urinate while sitting down to reduce the risk.
➤ It’s also important to manage constipation and persistent coughing, as the straining involved can lead to fainting.
Be careful with nighttime awakenings
At night, bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood pressure naturally tends to be lower. Getting up suddenly—especially to urinate—can cause a sudden drop in bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood pressure.
But that’s not the only concern:
- The urge to urinate can temporarily increase bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood pressure.
- Once the bladder is emptied, the pressure may drop quickly.
- Then, standing up from the toilet or returning to bed too quickly can make the drop in pressure even worse.
This is especially true for older adults. It’s therefore recommended to:
- Sit on the edge of the bed first,
- Wait a few moments while seated,
- Then stand up slowly.
These same precautions are just as important when returning to bed afterward.
Related articles
Latest articles
