Fainting (cont.)
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Exams and Tests
The cause of fainting is determined in only half of cases.
- Most diagnoses are made through a medical history and physical examination along with an electrocardiogram, or ECG (heart tracing).
- ECG findings that are normal are reassuring.
- Further testing is based on the findings of this initial evaluation.
Cardiac syncope: If a cardiac cause is suspected, several tests are available. Most are used to identify coronary heart disease, heart failure, or arrhythmias.
Noncardiac syncope: Testing depends on the suspected cause. A CT scan is useful only if seizure, stroke, or significant head injury is suspected. Head-up tilt testing is useful to diagnose vasovagal syncope.
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Syncope and Related Paroxysmal Spells »
Syncope is a term used to describe the loss of consciousness from temporary disruption of cerebral oxygenation.
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