Can syncope look like a seizure?

Syncope is common in the general population, and its symptoms can mimic seizures, including myoclonic jerks, oral automatism, head-turning, and (rarely) urinary incontinence. Syncope may also trigger a seizure in patients who do not necessarily have epilepsy.

Can vasovagal syncope mimic a seizure?

This neurological disorder can result in convulsions, loss of consciousness, and limited motor activity. Vasovagal syncope can mimic epileptic seizures and be difficult to diagnose at first look.

How can you distinguish a seizure?

Having tests like an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan to look at the brain and EEG (electroencephalogram) tests to record the electrical activity of the brain are very helpful to diagnose types of seizures and epilepsy properly.

What are the symptoms of syncope?

The most common symptoms of syncope include:

• Blacking out.
• Feeling lightheaded.
• Falling for no reason.
• Feeling dizzy.
• Feeling drowsy or groggy.
• Fainting, especially after eating or exercising.
• Feeling unsteady or weak when standing.
• Changes in vision, such as seeing spots or having tunnel vision.

Can you be aware during a seizure?

Some people have an “aura,” or warning. This is actually the first symptom of a seizure. It’s considered part of the seizure, since bursts of electrical activity are already going on in the brain when this occurs. During this part of the seizure, you are still conscious and aware of what is going on.

How do you test for syncope?

How is syncope diagnosed?

1. Laboratory testing: Blood work to check for anemia or metabolic changes.
2. Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG): A test that records the electrical activity of your heart.
3. Exercise stress test: A test that uses an ECG to record your heart’s electrical activity while you are active.

How do you diagnose syncope?

Is syncope a diagnosis or symptom?

A major issue in the use of diagnostic tests is that syncope is a transient symptom and not a disease. Typically patients are asymptomatic at the time of evaluation and the opportunity to capture a spontaneous event during diagnostic testing is rare.