Blacking OUT

Lately, I've been having problems with  balance when standing up (not dizziness) after lieing down. I become faint and often have to steady myself before moving on. On several occassions, I have actually have blacked out,albeit briefly, but nevertheless fell and hit my head. I immediately got up and luckily have not hurt myself. The first time this happened I had been taking a cough syrup that contained codene so I dismissed it. However, this has happened several times since when I haven't taken anything so I'm understandbly concerned.Would you tell me what this is symptomatic of and what kind of physician I should be discussing this with. I do have controlled high blood pressure for which I take Hydrochlorozide-50mg, Amlodipine-10mg, and Benazepril HCL-40mg.

[Lee Kirksey, MD]

Hello
You didnt mention your age of if your activity level. I will tell you that syncope is a serious complaint. You can seriously hurt yourself or others. Imagine if youre driving when this happens. You should report the complaint to your Emergency Department of your PCP immediately. They will perform test to determine if various things like your heart rate, blockages in your carotid vessels which may cause you to have a stroke and brain tumors which may cause your symptoms. But most importantly, dont hesitate. All doctors can perform this work up and can call in specialists as they see appropriate. I would recommend that you not drive until the problem is resolved. thanks, Best of health

Best of health