What are the warning signs of syncope of cardiac origin?
Cardiogenic syncope refers to syncope triggered by acute cerebral ischemia due to a sudden reduction in cardiac output. Premonitory symptoms typically include palpitations, convulsions, dizziness, visual blackout, generalized weakness, and other manifestations.
1. Palpitations
Before an episode, patients may experience increased or irregular heart rate due to insufficient cardiac blood supply.
2. Convulsions
When the brain lacks sufficient oxygen and blood supply, abnormal neuronal excitability may occur, leading to limb convulsions.
3. Dizziness
Insufficient oxygen and blood supply to brain tissue disrupts normal function, resulting in sensations of dizziness or vertigo.
4. Visual Blackout (Amaurosis)
Cardiac abnormalities causing inadequate systemic blood flow affect cerebral perfusion, leading to neurological dysfunction and symptoms such as blurred vision or temporary loss of vision (blackout).
5. Generalized Weakness
Hypoxia and insufficient cerebral blood flow may impair normal muscle function, causing muscle weakness, manifesting as generalized fatigue, weakness, or malaise.
Upon experiencing these symptoms, patients are advised to promptly seek medical attention at a hospital. Under physician guidance, appropriate diagnostic evaluations should be completed, followed by targeted treatment addressing the underlying cause, along with symptomatic and supportive therapies. This includes correcting disturbances in water-electrolyte balance and acid-base equilibrium, as well as improving myocardial ischemia.