SYNCOPE - DIAGNOSIS OF CARDIAC AND NONCARDIAC CAUSES

Syncope is a sudden and temporary loss of consciousness not caused by, trauma or seizures. Patients age 65 and older are at elevated risk of syncope-related falls and sudden cardiac death. Cardiovascular causes are generally electrical (ie, arrhythmias) or mechanical (obstruction of central circulation at a cardiac valve or major vascular structure ). Noncardiovascular causes include orthostatic hypotension, vasovagal reaction, micturition, carotid sinus hypersensitivity, and neurologic (eg, TIAs). Many causes of syncope can be diagnosed from a thorough h istory and physical exam. More extensive testing - ECG, Holter monitor ing, electrophysiology study - may be indicated for selected patients with unexplained syncope and an unremarkable evaluation.