Is Frequent Fainting A Sign Of Heart Disease: Frequent fainting is considered a common problem, but taking it lightly can sometimes prove dangerous. According to statistics, about 15 to 25 percent of the general population experiences fainting at some point in their life. Often people ignore it by associating it with fatigue, dehydration, stress or not eating, but experts say that in some cases it can also be a sign of serious heart disease.
According to Dr. Pramod Kumar, cardiologist, Fortis Escorts Hospital, New Delhi, “Fainting can happen in two types of people, one whose heart is completely healthy and the other who already has some heart disease. Especially people whose heart is weak or whose pumping function is less, they are at higher risk of fainting. Sometimes it can also be the first and only warning sign of a disturbance in the heartbeat i.e. arrhythmia.”
Risk of heart attack increases
Fast heartbeats, such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, or very slow heartbeats can cause the heart to stop beating for a few seconds. Due to this, blood flow to the brain suddenly reduces and the person may become unconscious. Apart from this, sudden drop in blood pressure while standing is also a common cause of fainting.
When does the problem increase?
Doctors say that the problem increases when fainting is mistaken for epilepsy or fits. In such cases, the patient has to undergo unnecessary tests and treatment, whereas the real cause may be heart related. According to experts, if some types of fainting are treated properly on time, the results are good in the long run, but in some cases, if not identified at the right time, there can be a danger to life.
In these cases one should immediately contact the doctor
Cardiologists say that fainting repeatedly or without any apparent reason is a red flag. Especially if fainting occurs while exercising, lying down, or without any warning, immediate investigation is necessary. If it is accompanied by chest pain, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath or a history of sudden death in the family, then the risk increases further. According to doctors, “Syncope is not a disease but a symptom. The real question is why the blood flow to the brain suddenly reduced.” Many times the patients themselves consider it to be a lifestyle related problem, due to which the investigation is not done at the right time.
The good thing is that many dangerous causes related to heart can be detected only through early detection. A simple ECG, heart monitoring or echo test can reveal whether the cause of fainting is minor or life-threatening.
Also read: Is the habit of cracking the neck a risk of stroke, the physician told – when does this problem increase?
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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