All::Cardiovascular System::Diseases::Syncope
Intro
Define syncope.
Transient loss of consciousness due to global cerebral hypoperfusion.
What are the types of reflex syncope?
Vasovagal, situational, carotid sinus syncope.
What are examples of triggers for vasovagal syncope?
Emotion, pain, stress.
What are examples of triggers for situational syncope?
Cough, micturition, gastrointestinal events.
What are examples of primary autonomic failure causing orthostatic syncope?
Parkinson's disease, Lewy body dementia.
What are examples of secondary autonomic failure causing orthostatic syncope?
Diabetic neuropathy, amyloidosis, uraemia.
What are examples of drugs that can induce orthostatic syncope?
Diuretics, alcohol, vasodilators.
What are examples of conditions causing volume depletion leading to orthostatic syncope?
Haemorrhage, diarrhoea.
What are the cardiac causes of syncope?
Arrhythmias, structural issues, pulmonary embolism.
What are examples of arrhythmias causing cardiac syncope?
Bradycardias, tachycardias.
What are examples of structural issues causing cardiac syncope?
Valvular problems, myocardial infarction, hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy.
What other cause of syncope falls under cardiac syncope?
Pulmonary embolism.
What is the most common cause of syncope in all age groups?
Reflex syncope.
What causes become more common in older patients regarding syncope?
Orthostatic and cardiac causes.
What diagnostic criteria are used for postural blood pressure readings?
Symptomatic fall in systolic BP > 20 mmHg or diastolic BP > 10 mmHg or decrease in systolic BP < 90 mmHg.
What tests are recommended for all patients with syncope?
ECG.
What further investigations are not required for patients with typical features, no postural drop, and a normal ECG?
Other tests.