Synkopering

Synkopering is a term used in some Scandinavian medical texts to describe the process or occurrence of syncope, that is, a transient loss of consciousness due to temporary cerebral hypoperfusion. The expression is not common in English-language medical literature, where the condition is usually referred to as syncope or fainting. Synkopering encompasses the sequence of events leading to loss of consciousness and recovery.

Causes of synkopering fall into several broad categories. Vasovagal (neurocardiogenic) syncope is the most frequent and is often triggered by stress, pain, or prolonged standing. Orthostatic hypotension results from a failure to compensate for gravitational blood pooling when standing. Cardiac causes include arrhythmias (brady- or tachyarrhythmias) and structural heart disease (for example, significant valvular disease or cardiomyopathy). Less common: reflex-mediated events, situational triggers (coughing, micturition), or metabolic issues.

Clinical features typically include warning symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, sweating, nausea, or blurred vision before the episode, followed by abrupt loss of consciousness and rapid, complete recovery after lying down. After an event, memory of the episode may be present or partially missing.

Diagnosis is clinical but often involves targeted investigations: electrocardiography, orthostatic blood pressure measurements, and echocardiography if structural disease is suspected. In uncertain cases, tilt-table testing or ambulatory monitoring may be used to identify vasovagal or arrhythmic causes.

Management focuses on identifying and treating the underlying cause, while ensuring safety during episodes. First aid includes lying the patient flat and elevating the legs, monitoring for injuries, and seeking medical evaluation for recurrent or unexplained events. Prevention emphasizes avoiding triggers, adequate hydration, and, when appropriate, treatment of the specific cause. The prognosis varies by cause but is generally favorable in uncomplicated vasovagal syncope.