AEMCA Practice Exam

Which type of syncope is typically triggered by standing up quickly?

1. Neurogenic syncope

2. Cardiac syncope

3. Orthostatic hypotension syncope

4. Reflex syncope

The correct answer is: Orthostatic hypotension syncope

Orthostatic hypotension syncope is often triggered by standing up quickly due to the body's inability to properly regulate blood flow and blood pressure when changing positions. When a person stands up, gravity causes blood to pool in the lower extremities, which can reduce the return of blood to the heart and subsequently decrease cardiac output. In individuals prone to orthostatic hypotension, this can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure, resulting in symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, or even loss of consciousness. This condition particularly affects older adults or those on certain medications, which can exacerbate the drop in blood pressure. The key characteristic of this syncope is that it specifically happens in response to positional changes, distinguishing it from other types of syncope, which might have different underlying mechanisms and triggers.