Syncope is a loss of consciousness (fainting) that occurs when
blood pressure drops very low and not enough blood reaches the
brain. A person may have shortness of breath, palpitations, or
chest discomfort before fainting. The reduction in blood flow
usually happens quickly, which causes symptoms to appear
suddenly. Syncope can be caused by several conditions, but it
most often occurs when changes in heart rate or heart rhythm
reduce the amount of blood flow to the body. Fainting caused by
a problem in the heart is called cardiac syncope. Other types of
syncope that are not linked with heart problems include neurally
mediated syncope, also called vasovagal, neurocardiogenic, and
vasodepressor syncope. Syncope requires medical attention.
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