Fainting Specialist

What is fainting?

Fainting, also known as syncope, occurs when there’s a drop in blood flow to the brain, leading to a temporary loss of consciousness. 

During a fainting spell, you may feel dizzy and lightheaded, and your vision may go white or black. At the same time, you may lose control over your muscles that may cause you to fall down. 

Fainting may also cause nausea or cold and clammy skin. 

What causes fainting?

Fainting most often occurs from a drop in blood pressure, which is known as vasovagal syncope. If you have chronic hypotension or low blood pressure, you may be more prone to fainting. 

Hunger, dehydration, and heat may also cause a drop in blood pressure that leads to fainting.

However, fainting may also be a symptom of a neurological problem such as:

• Transient ischemic attack (TIA) — temporary loss of blood flow to the brain
• Seizure
• Normal blood pressure hydrocephalus — excessive fluid on the brain
• Autonomic insufficiency ― dysfunction of nerves that control involuntary functions

Whether your fainting is a one-time thing or something that occurs regularly, you should schedule an appointment with the experts at Complete Neurological Care. They can determine if your fainting stems from a neurological cause and provide the most effective treatment. 

What happens during an evaluation for fainting?

When you visit Complete Neurological Care for a fainting evaluation, you can expect a comprehensive exam. The neurology and epileptology practice has state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to find the underlying cause of your fainting.

During the evaluation, your provider may measure your blood pressure and heart rate. If they suspect a heart condition, they may perform an electrocardiogram (EKG). 

If your provider suspects your fainting is a symptom of a neurological condition, they may perform an MRI, CT scan, or electroencephalography (EEG). 

How is fainting treated?

Complete Neurological Care customizes your fainting treatment plan based on the underlying neurological cause. 

For example, if a TIA is the cause of your fainting, your provider prescribes blood thinners and cholesterol-lowering medication to reduce your risk of having a stroke. 

For patients with fainting because of epilepsy or hydrocephalus, the board-certified neurologists provide care to manage symptoms that may reduce fainting spells.

When fainting is a neurological concern, schedule a consultation at Complete Neurological Care by calling the office nearest you or booking an appointment online today.