Syncope (Fainting): Causes, Diagnosis, and Expert Evaluation at 14 Street Medical
Syncope, commonly known as fainting, is a sudden, temporary loss of consciousness caused by reduced blood flow to the brain. Although many cases are harmless, fainting can sometimes indicate a more serious underlying cardiac or neurological condition. Understanding the causes and receiving a proper evaluation is essential.
At 14 Street Medical, we provide comprehensive, modern diagnostic testing to identify the cause of syncope and guide treatment.
What Is Syncope?
Syncope is a brief loss of consciousness followed by a rapid, spontaneous recovery. It often results from a temporary decrease in blood pressure, heart rate, or blood flow to the brain.
Common Symptoms Before Fainting
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Lightheadedness or dizziness
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Blurred or tunnel vision
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Nausea or sweating
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Feeling warm
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Weakness
Main Types of Syncope
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Vasovagal (Reflex) Syncope
Triggered by pain, emotional stress, heat, or prolonged standing. -
Cardiac Syncope
Caused by arrhythmias or structural heart disease. This type requires prompt evaluation. -
Neurologic Syncope
Related to seizures, stroke, or autonomic disorders.
Diagnostic Evaluation of Syncope
A thorough evaluation is essential to determine the cause and rule out serious conditions. 14 Street Medical offers advanced, on-site diagnostic tools.
Brain MRI
A Brain MRI is used when neurological causes of syncope are suspected.
When Brain MRI Is Recommended
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Confusion after fainting
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Seizure-like activity
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Weakness, numbness, or speech difficulty
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Severe headache
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Abnormal neurological examination
Telemetry (Cardiac) Monitoring
Telemetry provides continuous monitoring of heart rhythm, helping identify arrhythmias that may cause fainting.
Telemetry is Useful For
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Unexplained fainting
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Syncope during exertion
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Irregular heartbeats
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Known heart disease
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Abnormal EKG
EEG (Electroencephalogram)
An EEG evaluates brain electrical activity and is used when a seizure is suspected.
When EEG Is Recommended
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Jerking or convulsive movements
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Prolonged confusion after the episode
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Suspected seizure disorder
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Witnessed convulsions
When to Seek Immediate Medical Care
Seek urgent evaluation if fainting occurs:
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With chest pain or shortness of breath
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Without warning signs
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During exercise
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With new neurological symptoms
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Repeatedly or for the first time after age 40
Why Choose 14 Street Medical for Syncope Evaluation?
14 Street Medical provides comprehensive, patient-focused evaluation using advanced diagnostics and experienced clinical providers.
Reasons Patients Choose Us
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Expert clinicians in cardiac, neurological, and reflex syncope
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On-site advanced diagnostics including Brain MRI, cardiac telemetry, EEG, EKG, and laboratory testing
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Convenient Midtown Manhattan location
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Same-day and next-day appointment availability
Insurances We Accept
14 Street Medical accepts a wide range of insurance plans, including:
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Medicare
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Medicaid
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UnitedHealthcare
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Oxford
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Aetna
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Cigna
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BlueCross BlueShield / Empire BCBS
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Healthfirst
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Fidelis Care
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EmblemHealth / GHI / HIP
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1199SEIU
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Multiplan / PHCS
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No-Fault and Workers’ Compensation
Our staff is available to verify your coverage prior to your visit.
Schedule Your Evaluation
If you have experienced fainting, dizziness, or unexplained loss of consciousness, the team at 14 Street Medical is ready to help with a complete and compassionate evaluation.





