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Fludrocortisone causes ‘salt’ (sodium) retention via the kidneys. This leads to retention of water and an increase in overall blood volume. Alongside adequate fluid intake, this may reduce or eliminate episodes of low blood pressure. Fludrocortisone can be used in patients with Orthostatic Hypotension or Vasovagal Syncope when conservative measures are insufficient to relieve symptoms. […]

How does Ivabradine work? Ivabradine mainly works by reducing the heart rate by a few beats per minute. This lowers the hearts’ need for oxygen.  It is important to continue conservative measures while taking ivabradine: Weaning Ivabradine It is important not to discontinue Ivabradine abruptly. It must be weaned under medical supervision, please ensure this […]

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 […]

A ‘Tilt’ test is an assessment of the changes in blood pressure and heart rate / rhythm in different positions. It can help identify the cause of blackouts and investigate symptoms caused by changes in posture. Why do I need a Tilt test? Normally your blood pressure and heart rate will change according to your […]

The following actions may help you when you feel dizzy Before you get out of bed: These simple exercises will help get blood flowing. If you are dizzy when you stand: If you are standing for a long time If advised by clinic See the following link http://www.stars.org.uk/patient-info/treatment-options/managing-your-syncope  and click on

Midodrine causes bloods vessels to tighten which increases blood pressure. This action can help to treat orthostatic hypotension (also known as postural hypotension), POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and Vasovagal Syncope (also known as reflex syncope or ‘fainting’). Midodrine can be used when conservative measures are insufficient to relieve symptoms. It is important to continue […]

Definitions Normal Heart Rate (‘Pulse’) Normal resting heart rate ranges between 60 and 100 beats per minute for adolescents and adults. Normal Heart Rhythm (Electrical Activity) Sinus rhythm is the characteristic rhythm of the normal healthy heart. Tachycardia and Bradycardia ‘Tachy-’ is a medical term that means fast. ‘Brady-’ means slow. Tachycardia is when the […]