AEMCA Practice Exam

What is a less common cause of syncope?

1. Postural changes

2. Cardiac history

3. Urination

4. Vasovagal response

The correct answer is: Urination

The less common cause of syncope in this context is urination. While syncope can result from a variety of triggers, the others listed, such as postural changes, cardiac history, and vasovagal response, are more frequently identified causes of this condition. Urination-related syncope, although it can occur, is generally considered uncommon compared to the more prevalent mechanisms. Vasovagal syncope, for example, is a common response to stress or certain triggers such as the sight of blood. Similarly, syncope due to postural changes—often referred to as orthostatic hypotension—is a well-documented phenomenon related to sudden changes in body position. Cardiac irregularities, reflecting underlying heart conditions, are also a frequent source of syncope. In contrast, syncope directly linked to urination—often seen in males related to bladder pressure and reflexive responses—does occur, but it is not nearly as prevalent in the broader population. Thus, while all options can lead to syncope, urination stands out as a less common cause.