Trusted Treatment and Answers for Syncope 

Syncope (“SIN-ko-pee”) is the medical term for fainting or passing out. It usually happens when there is a sudden decrease in blood flow to the brain. Syncope can occur in healthy people of any age. In some cases, it may be linked to a heart or nervous system condition. 

You deserve clear answers after fainting. At Keck Medicine of USC, we start by listening. Our syncope team reviews your symptoms, medical history and risk factors, then recommends the right tests and next steps. If needed, you may see a cardiologist, neurologist or both. 

Common Symptoms of Syncope and Fainting 

Syncope symptoms can start suddenly and may lead to a brief loss of consciousness or a fall. Most people recover quickly, though some feel confused afterward. Symptoms may include: 

• Blurred vision, spots or tunnel vision 
• Cold, pale, clammy or sweaty skin 
• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded 
• Heart palpitations, fast or slow heartbeat, or chest discomfort 
• Nausea or sudden urge to vomit 
• Ringing in the ears 
• Shortness of breath or frequent yawning 

How We Evaluate Syncope

Your first visit focuses on what happened before, during and after you passed out. Your care team may check blood pressure and heart rhythm, review medications and order tests to identify the cause. Testing may include an electrocardiogram (EKG), heart rhythm monitoring, heart imaging or other studies based on your symptoms.  

Treatments We Offer for Syncope 

If you faint once and are otherwise healthy, you may not need treatment. However, you should see a provider if fainting happens more than once or occurs with chest pain, shortness of breath or confusion. 

Treatment depends on the cause of syncope and your test results. Our goal is to reduce your risk of fainting again and help you feel confident managing your health. Treatment options may include: 

• Avoiding triggers like heat, long periods of standing or emotional stress 
• Biofeedback therapy may help some people manage heart rate and stress responses. 
• Compression stockings to help improve blood flow 
• Heart devices, such as pacemakers or implantable defibrillators, when needed 
• Medications, such as beta blockers or midodrine, or changes to current medicines 
• Neurology care may help when symptoms suggest a nervous system cause. 

Your care team works with you to create a treatment plan based on your needs and lifestyle.

Why Choose Us for Syncope Care

Patients choose us because our specialists evaluate fainting with a clear, step-by-step approach.

Your care team can coordinate cardiology and neurology evaluation when symptoms point to more than one cause.

Advanced testing helps identify the cause of syncope, so care does not rely on guesswork.

You receive a plan that fits your symptoms, your health history and your daily routine.

Clear guidance helps you know what to do if symptoms return and when to seek urgent care.