What is the medical term for "passing out" or loss of consciousness?

The medical term for "passing out" or loss of consciousness is syncope. Syncope specifically refers to a temporary loss of consciousness due to a decrease in blood flow to the brain, which may occur from various causes such as dehydration, orthostatic hypotension, vasovagal response, or neurological conditions.

Understanding syncope is critical in clinical settings, as it helps healthcare professionals assess the underlying causes and potential risks associated with the event. Although terms like dizziness or fainting spells are often colloquially used to describe episodes where someone might lose consciousness, they do not capture the specific medical implications that syncope does. Cerebral ischemia, while potentially related, refers to a condition where blood flow to the brain is obstructed and does not specifically denote the transient nature of loss of consciousness as syncope does. Syncope provides a clearer, more clinical term that aids in diagnosing and managing the cause of such episodes effectively.