Expert Evaluation of Syncope in Southern California
Syncope or fainting refers to a sudden loss of consciousness. You can faint for a variety of reasons, including fear or a serious medical condition. Although most episodes of syncope are brief and nonlife-threatening, you should have a medical expert determine the cause of fainting.
When you need a doctor to evaluate your fainting episode, trust Dignity Health’s comprehensive emergency services. From quick blood tests to emergency radiology, our emergency department is trained to offer fast and efficient diagnosis for syncope in Southern California. Use our online waiting tool InQuicker to wait at home until you’re ready to be seen in the ER.
What Causes Fainting?
Syncope occurs when there isn’t adequate blood flow to the brain. There are a number of situations and conditions that can disrupt blood flow, but low blood pressure is the most common cause of fainting.
Other common causes for syncope include:
- Dehydration or overheating
- Exhaustion
- Severe pain
- Low blood sugar
- Medications
- Prolonged standing
- Sudden changes in posture which cause blood pooling in the legs
- Hyperventilation
- Emotional stress
Your doctor can better diagnose syncope the sooner the episode is reported.
When to Seek Emergency Care for Syncope at Dignity Health Southern California
Although syncope is usually harmless, fainting can indicate a serious underlying problem, such as certain heart problems.
Seek emergency care for syncope that occurs with:
- Heart palpitations
- Exercise
- Multiple episodes of fainting within a short time period
- A family history of exercise syncope, recurrent syncope, or sudden death
In the emergency room, your doctor may want to know about your medications and activities you were doing before the fainting spell. All of the information you provide will help your doctor create a personalized plan of care.
Syncope can be a frightening experience. Trust the skilled teams at our convenient locations in Camarillo, Glendale, Long Beach, Northridge, Oxnard, Downtown LA, and in Inland Empire cities San Bernardino, Fontana, and Highland to find the cause of your fainting.
Dignity Health’s emergency services provide compassionate care for syncope in Southern California.