Diagnosis and treatment of syncope

The diagnosis of syncope is a very complex process, it is necessary to take a detailed history from the patient including the following questions:

• whether the patient remembers what happened before and after the syncope
• whether the syncope recurs frequently
• what could have caused the fainting episode (strong emotions, being in a steamy or hot room, hypoglycaemia, sudden head movements, etc.). It is an individual question for each patient - what symptoms accompany fainting (nausea, vomiting, visual problems, eye pain, headaches)
• whether chest pain and other symptoms of shortness of breath, palpitations and others have been experienced
• whether the patient is taking any medication on a regular basis
• whether the patient may be suffering from neurosis and psychiatric disorders - a
• a very important role in the diagnosis of syncope is the differentiation of syncope from other diseases
  

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How to help a person who has fainted?

1. The person who has fainted should be put in a safe position
2. It is crucial to secure the head (something should be placed under the head)
3. Check that the patient is breathing and has a pulse
4. If no pulse is palpable it is necessary to start CPR and call an ambulance.
5. If the patient is conscious after fainting, continue to talk to him and observe his condition.
6. If the patient's condition does not improve, it is also necessary to call an ambulance

Syncope and its accompanying symptoms should never be underestimated as they may be indicative of a disease and may also pose a threat to health and life.