3. Blackout Flashcards
What are the most common causes of a transient loss of consciousness (LOC)?
Reflex, cardiac, orthostatic and cerebrovascular
What is the main reflex causes of LOC?
Vasovagal syncope
What is the main cardiac cause of LOC?
Arrythmia
What is the main orthostatic cause of LOC?
Drugs- antihypertensives, anti sympathetics
What are the main causes of LOC in the following:
25 yo
55 yo
85 yo
25- vasovagal
55- arrythmia
85- orthostatic
How do you split up your questions in a LOC history?
Before, during and after
What questions should you ask about before the LOC?
Were there any precipitating factors, was there any trauma, were there any warning signs- dizziness, palpitations, aura
What questions should you ask about regarding what happened during a LOC?
tongue biting, length, any witnessed
What questions should you ask about after a LOC?
How long was the recovery time
What drugs are you looking out for in someone who has had a LOC?
insulin, antihypertensives, vasodilators, antiarrythmics, antidepressants, warfarin
What things in the Shx and Fhx should you look out for in someone with a LOC?
Shx: Alcohol intake and stimulant recreational drugs
Fhx: sudden death in any relations under 65
What are the first line investigations in someone with a LOC?
Blood glucose, FBC, UEs, ECG
