Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.

Syncope

Kenneth K Wogensen, MD Our Services Syncope
Kenneth K Wogensen, MD - - Neurologist

Kenneth K Wogensen, MD

Neurologist located in Arcadia, CA

Syncope, or what you may know better as fainting, affects about 3% of adults in the United States at some point in their lives. If you’re experiencing syncope, you need to be evaluated by a specialist. Kenneth K. Wogensen, MD, in Arcadia, California, is a neurological expert and provides evaluations for syncope, and he can help determine the underlying cause of your fainting spells. Call the office today or book an appointment online for a consultation with Dr. Wogensen.

Syncope Q & A

What is syncope?

Syncope is the medical term used for fainting, and it occurs when there’s a decrease in blood flow to the brain. Syncope is a common condition that affects many people at various times in their lives. However, your risk of syncope increases as you get older.

Symptoms of syncope include:

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Unsteadiness when walking
  • Blacking out
  • Headaches
  • Tunnel vision

 

You may develop some of these symptoms before you pass out, such as lightheadedness, and you may be able to halt a syncopal event by sitting or lying down. If you do pass out, you should regain consciousness fairly quickly after the incident, but you may feel a little dazed.

What are the types of syncope?

There are many different types of syncope. The type you have may depend on the underlying cause.

Types of syncope include:

Vasovagal syncope

Vasovagal syncope is the most common type and occurs from a sudden drop in blood pressure that causes a decrease in blood flow to your brain.

Postural syncope

You may develop postural syncope after a sudden drop in blood pressure caused by a quick change in position.

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)

POTS occurs when your heart rate shoots up rapidly when you go from a sitting to a standing position.

Neurologic syncope

A neurological condition, such as a seizure or a stroke, can lead to syncope, and this is called neurologic syncope.

Situational syncope

Situational syncope generally occurs when specific conditions are met, such as being dehydrated, going too long without eating, or being anxious.

In some cases, the type or cause of syncope can be difficult to determine, or it may develop as a side effect of a medication. Dr. Wogensen conducts comprehensive evaluations when you come in to see him for your syncope, so he can provide you with the most appropriate treatment plan.

How is syncope treated?

Dr. Wogensen creates individualized treatment plans based on the underlying cause of your syncope, with a goal of preventing a recurrence. Your treatment plan may include:

  • Changing when you take your prescription medication
  • Diet modifications
  • Use of support hose to improve blood circulation
  • Avoiding or limiting the triggers

 

In some cases, special cardiac treatment, such as the implantation of a pacemaker, may be necessary to reduce syncopal episodes.

Dr. Wogensen specializes in neurological conditions and can help you find the underlying cause of your syncope to prevent a recurrence. For an evaluation, call the office today or book an appointment online.

What we offer

Services