﻿ Fainting (Syncope) Symptoms, Causes, Treatment - Heart
structural conditions - MedicineNet  Fainting (cont.)  Medical
Author: Medical Editor:  Heart structural conditions  Structural
problems with the heart can cause fainting or syncope, either
because there is a problem with the ability of the heart to
adequately pump blood or because of valve problems. When the
heart muscle becomes damaged or inflamed it may not have the
ability to pump blood to meet the body's needs. Examples include
a heart attack (myocardial infarction) or cardiomyopathy, in
which the heart muscle weakens.  Heart valve conditions
Abnormalities with the heart valves can also cause fainting or
syncope. The valves allow blood to go in the proper direction
when the heart pumps. Valve diseases may include abnormal
narrowing (stenosis) or leakage (insufficiency or
regurgitation). Either situation can cause issues with
maintaining adequate blood flow to the body.  Sudden cardiac
death  In young people, especially athletes, fainting or syncop