What causes situational syncope?

     In general, situational syncope may be caused by factors such as postural changes, prolonged hunger or irregular eating habits, dehydration, anemia, and arrhythmia. Symptomatic management through general treatment and medication may be necessary. If symptoms are severe, timely medical consultation is recommended, and treatment should follow medical advice. Detailed analysis is as follows:

     1. Postural Changes

     Sudden standing up or changing posture may cause an imbalance in the body's regulation of blood pressure, heart rate, and blood flow, leading to syncope. When changing positions, movements should be slow, giving the body sufficient time to adapt to blood pressure changes. Enhancing physical exercise and improving cardiovascular adaptability can help alleviate symptoms.

     2. Prolonged Hunger or Irregular Eating Habits

     Glucose is the primary energy source for the brain; low blood sugar can limit brain function and even cause temporary loss of consciousness. Prolonged hunger or irregular eating habits may lead to decreased blood glucose levels, triggering syncope. It is recommended to promptly replenish sugar, such as by drinking sugary beverages or consuming candy. Maintaining regular eating habits and avoiding prolonged fasting is also advised.

     3. Dehydration

     Insufficient water intake or excessive fluid loss can lead to dehydration. During dehydration, blood volume decreases, cardiac pumping efficiency declines, and cerebral blood supply becomes inadequate, causing syncope, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as thirst, reduced urine output, and fatigue. Increasing water intake, especially during hot weather or after exercise, is recommended.

     4. Anemia

     Malnutrition, excessive blood loss, or impaired hematopoietic function can cause anemia. In anemic conditions, the blood's ability to carry oxygen is weakened, leading to insufficient oxygen supply to the brain and resulting in syncope. Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. It is recommended to follow medical advice to use medications such as ferrous sulfate sustained-release tablets, iron(II) fumarate tablets, and ammonium ferric citrate vitamin B1 syrup II for treatment.

     5. Arrhythmia

     Abnormal cardiac electrophysiology or cardiovascular diseases may cause arrhythmia. In such cases, the heart cannot pump blood effectively, leading to insufficient cerebral blood supply and syncope. Symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath may also occur. Following medical advice to use medications such as quinidine sulfate tablets, procainamide hydrochloride tablets, and verapamil hydrochloride tablets to alleviate symptoms is recommended.

     In daily life, maintaining good living habits and a positive mindset can also help prevent syncope.

     References

     [1] Liu Hui, Yang Zhijian. Clinical Characteristics Analysis of 41 Cases of Syncope [J]. Chinese Journal of Clinicians, 2013, 41(08): 35-36.

     [2] Li Lihua. Recognition and Treatment of Neurogenic Syncope [J]. Scientific Living, 2025, (02): 16-17.