Conditions which can cause fainting

Vaso-vagal syncope

Another term for a simple faint this is the commonest reason for passing out and occurs due to a sudden drop in heart rate, blood pressure or a combination of the two. Usually there is nothing wrong with your heart but it may be important to rule out a heart problem by having a number of tests for reassurance.

Bradycardia

This is the medical term for a slow pulse and can cause you to pass out. Tablets such as beta-blockers can cause this but other heart conditions can also be responsible. If you do have a number of blackouts due to a persistently slow pulse you may need a pacemaker to treat this.

Arrhythmia

Very rarely heart rhythm problems causing a very rapid heart beat can also cause people to pass out. These conditions only usually occur in patients with pre-existing heart problems.

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