Neurocardiogenic Vasovagal Syncope - Symptoms and Treatment

Vasovagal syncope is the most common cause of fainting . It can affect people of all ages, but is particularly common in young women.  It is also known as Neurocardiogenic Syncope or Vasodepressor Syncope. Syncope is the temporary loss of consciousness due to a sudden decline in blood flow to the brain.

Syncope can occur in otherwise healthy people. It most often occurs when the blood pressure is too low and the heart doesn't pump a normal supply of oxygen to the brain. Syncope can even be life-threatening if not treated appropriately. If syncope occurs with exercise, or if it is associated with palpitations or irregularities of the heart visit a doctor immediately.

Syncope is common and disabling, but its causes are difficult to diagnose. An important issue is distinguishing syncope from several other symptoms. Dizziness, presyncope, and vertigo do not result in a loss of consciousness. Vertigo is associated with a sense of motion. Distinguishing syncope from seizure can sometimes be difficult. However, a loss of consciousness that is precipitated by pain, exercise, urination, defecation, or stressful events is usually associated with syncope and not seizure. Also, disorientation after the event, slowness in returning to consciousness, and unconsciousness lasting more than five minutes suggest a seizure.

Causes of Neurocardiogenic Vasovagal Syncope

Find common causes and risk factors of Neurocardiogenic Vasovagal Syncope:

• Emotional stress.
• Changes in the blood volume.
• An irregular cardiac rate or rhythm.
• Overheating.
• Side effect of medicine.
• Heavy sweating or exhaustion .
• Neurological disorders .

Signs and Symptoms of Neurocardiogenic Vasovagal Syncope

Sign and symptoms may include the following :

• Sweatiness.
• Rapid heart rate.
• Paleness.
• Dizziness, or tightness in the throat.
• Nausea.

Treatment for Neurocardiogenic Vasovagal Syncope

Treatment may include:

• Some patients may need to be on a high salt diet or wear compression stockings.
• For people with frequent episodes of fainting caused by Slow Heart Rate , they may need a pacemaker.
• In people with frequent or disabling symptoms, treatment with beta-blockers (such as Metoprolol or Atenolol) may help.  Other medicines that can be used include Scopolamine, Disopyramide, or Theophylline
• Vasovagal syncope is usually not a very serious problem and is usually very easily treated.  If care is taken, repeat episodes may be avoided.