In most cases, the kind of abnormal heart rhythms that lead to fainting can be successfully treated, but first they must be correctly diagnosed. If you have had more than one episode in the past several years, and you and your doctor have not been able to determine the cause, you may want to consider seeing a specialist, such as a cardiologist or electrophysiologist. A cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the heart. If your episodes are caused by a heart-related condition, like an arrhythmia, a cardiologist may be able to diagnose the problem. An electrophysiologist is a cardiologist who has had special training in heart rhythm problems and the heart's electrical system.
Electrical impulses are what keep a healthy heart beating at a normal rate and rhythm.
If the heart's electrical system does not function properly, it can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or just too inefficiently to pump blood effectively. In these patients, it is this reduced blood flow, specifically reduced blood flow to the brain, that causes them to faint. An electrophysiologist is an expert in detecting and treating abnormal heartbeats. To find a cardiologist or electrophysiologist in your area, you can ask for a referral from your regular doctor or click here for additional help from Medtronic.