What is syncope?

Syncope (pronounced "sin-ko-pea") is the brief loss of consciousness and posture caused by a temporary decrease in blood flow to the brain. Syncope may be associated with a sudden fall in blood pressure, a decrease in heart rate or changes in blood volume or distribution. The person usually regains consciousness and becomes alert right away, but may experience a brief period of confusion.

Syncope is a common condition, affecting 3 percent of men and 3.5 percent of women at some point in life. It becomes more prevalent with advancing age, occurring in as many as 6 percent of people over age 75. Syncope affects patients of all ages,both with and without other medical conditions.

Syncope is often the result of an underlying medical condition that could be related to your heart, nervous system or blood flow to the brain.

With accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, syncope can be resolved in most patients.