Syncope

Syncope is an involuntary body response that causes fainting. During syncope, the heart rate slows, and the blood vessels dilate, which means less blood gets to the brain. 

What are the signs and symptoms of syncope?

A child who is about to faint may feel:

• Dizzy or lightheaded
• Nauseous
• Vision whites out or blacks out

What causes syncope?

Syncope can be caused by a variety of situations, such as:

• Vasovagal syncope
• Orthostatic hypotension (standing up too fast)
• Heart defects
• Irregular heartbeat
• Inflammation of heart muscle (myocarditis)

How is syncope treated?

Treatments include avoiding situations that may cause a vasovagal response, such as scary or stressful events. Other treatments include treating underlying conditions that may cause syncope, such as repairing a heart defect.