What is Vasovagal Syncope?
Vasovagal syncope (sin-co-pee) is an exaggerated tendency towards the common faint. It is caused by pooling of blood in the legs (often through prolonged standing or sitting), which causes a drop in blood pressure, which then stimulates a reflex action, causing a further huge drop in blood pressure and/or heart rate (pulse).
When this happens, insufficient blood gets to the brain and dizziness and blackouts occur.
Promptly being placed in the lying down position rapidly relieves symptoms in most cases.
Triggers
- Rapid change from lying to standing
- Fasting
- Stress
- Fatigue
- Alcohol
- Heavy meal
- Warm environments
- Pain
- Straining while going to the toilet
- Certain situations:
- Dentists
- Sight of needles/blood
Vasovagal syncope is not life threatening, and with the following measures (and medication if necessary) is generally easily controlled. The problem also tends to get better with time.
What you should do if you feel dizzy or faint
Act quickly, the second you feel your symptoms coming on:
- Sit down IMMEDIATELY
- If possible LIE DOWN FLAT
- Preferably PUT YOUR LEGS IN THE AIR, for example against a wall.
- Get up CAUTIOUSLY when you feel well again, but if you have further symptoms be prepared to sit down promptly.
Acting quickly, this will help prevent the episode– the longer you go on with symptoms, the more likely a blackout or severe symptoms will occur.
How you can help prevent/stop this happening
- Avoid prolonged sitting or standing.
- If unavoidable, clench and unclench your calf or buttock muscles, or rock forward on the balls of your feet to encourage blood flow. Physical counter-manoeuvres can be very effective.
- Avoid excess alcohol as this exaggerates symptoms.
As Per Clinic Advice
- Drink 1 ½ to 2 litres of non-caffeinated fluids in the first few hours of the morning, and then sufficient fluids to keep your urine clear for the rest of the day.
The following measures should be instigated only after discussion with your doctor.
- Wearing support tights during the day and removing them before bed
- Increasing your salt intake (this is not advised if you are being treated for high blood pressure
In some instances, it may be necessary to recommend medications, if so this will discussed this with you.
