Syncope patients are often misdiagnosed as having a seizure. Some factors favoring true syncope: 1. Preceding nausea or diaphoreses 2. Oriented (not confused) upon waking (no post-ictal period). 3. Age > 45 4. Prolonged sitting or standing before episode 5. History of CHF or CAD
Factors favoring seizures: 1. History of seizure disorder 2. Tongue biting 3. Confusion upon waking 4. Loss of consciousness > 5 min 5. Age < 45 6. Preceding aura 7. Observed unusual posturing, jerking, or head turning during episode
