Fainting / Syncope in Children and Teenagers
What is Fainting?
A faint (blackout/syncope) is a sudden loss of consciousness—not usually associated with jerking movements. The medical term for a faint is syncope.
The most common cause in children and teenagers is a transient fall in blood pressure (vasovagal syncope). This may occur after prolonged standing, particularly on a hot day or in dehydrated individuals. Rarely, it can be due to an underlying heart condition, so assessment by a clinician is advisable.
Symptoms & Warnings
Common warnings include feeling light-headed, queasy (nauseous), loss of hearing, or a sensation of everything becoming dark. They may appear pale or clammy.
Diagnosis & The Tilt Test
An Echocardiogram and ECG are performed to exclude structural heart disease. Depending on history, a 24-hour tape or exercise test may be used.
The Tilt Test: Involves monitoring heart rate and blood pressure while tilted forward on a specialized table. It helps diagnose vasovagal fainting tendencies in a safe, controlled environment.
Treatment & Outlook
For simple fainting (vasovagal syncope), the primary treatment is increased fluid and salt intake and regular meals. If an underlying heart condition is found, specific treatment will be required.
The outlook for children with simple fainting is excellent. Most children outgrow it or learn to control their symptoms.
Tilt Testing
A specialized test to evaluate blood pressure response and fainting triggers.
Expert Care
Dr Naqvi is the Paediatric Aortopathy Marfan Lead at the Royal Brompton Hospital and an expert in fainting disorders.