Fits, faints and funny turns

Abstract

Fits, faints and funny turns represent a common
reason for presentation – either to the general
practitioner or to the emergency department. In
many cases, the consultation is dissatisfying for the
doctor and the patient, as such patients frequently
present a diagnostic dilemma for the clinician. Frequently, the key
to a satisfactory evaluation is a structured approach, premised on
a clear and comprehensive history focused on prior comorbidities
and the episode – its context, precipitating factors, prior situational
factors, onset and evolution, and events occurring afterwards. A
detailed and carefully elicited medical history allows the clinician
to confirm the diagnosis, delineate the underlying mechanism, and
identify features that may suggest high risk of recurrence, injury
or death.