So Bernie's spokesman says he didn't slip and that he got 7 stitches -- which is significant --

[NurseJackie]

156. When they say "without slipping" to me that means "he fainted unexpectedly," and that's...

When they say "without slipping" to me that means "he fainted unexpectedly," and that's... entirely possible that it could have been a cardiac syncope episode... one where he actually lost consciousness (or nearly lost consciousness) and then hit his head as a result.

I get the feeling that people aren't being forthcoming about this as the story keeps changing. Also the treatment that was CLAIMED to have been received is inconsistent with standard practice when an elderly person hits their head with enough force to cause a laceration (or even just a goose-egg/bruise).

In my opinion, this is much more serious than people are letting on (for obvious reasons). Nevertheless, people deserve to know the truth about the health of ALL candidates and whether or not he (or she) actually has the stamina to perform the strenuous duties and keep the long hours required to be the Leader of the Free World.

http://tinyurl.com/y44ktoxx (short URL goes to heart.org)

What is cardiac syncope?

Cardiac or cardiovascular syncope is caused by various heart conditions, such as bradycardia, tachycardia or certain types of hypotension. It can increase the risk of sudden cardiac death.

People suspected of having cardiac syncope but who don't have serious medical conditions may be managed as outpatients. Further inpatient evaluation is needed if serious medical conditions are present. Conditions that may warrant hospital evaluation and treatment include various cardiac arrhythmic conditions, cardiac ischemia, severe aortic stenosis and pulmonary embolism. If evaluation suggests cardiac vascular abnormalities, an ambulatory external or implantable cardiac monitor may be required.

Heart failure, atrial fibrillation and other serious cardiac conditions can cause recurrent syncope in older adults, with a sharp increase after age 70.

What are the risk factors?

Syncope is common, but adults over age 80 are at greater risk of hospitalization and death.

Younger people without cardiac disease but who've experienced syncope while standing or have specific stress or situational triggers aren't as likely to experience cardiac syncope.

Cardiac syncope is a higher risk in: people older than age 60; men; presence of known heart disease; brief palpitations or sudden loss of consciousness; fainting during exertion; fainting while supine; an abnormal cardiac exam; or family history of inheritable conditions. Other existing conditions and medications used are particularly important in older patients.