Vasovagal syncope

Question 1

Define

Answer 1

DEFINITION: loss of consciousness due to a transient drop in blood flow to the brain caused by excessive vagal discharge.

Question 2

Causes

Answer 2

Vasovagal syncope is a very common cause of fainting

Can be precipitated by:

Emotions (e.g. fear, severe pain, blood phobia)

Orthostatic stress (e.g. prolonged standing, hot weather)

Question 3

Epidemiology

Answer 3

VERY COMMON

Syncope (of all causes) affects 40% of people

Question 4

Symptoms

Answer 4

Loss of consciousness lasting a short time

Patients may experience vagal symptoms (sweating, dizziness, light-headedness) before passing out

There may be some twitching of limbs during the blackout

Recovery is normally very quick

Question 5

Signs

Answer 5

Usually NO SIGNS

Question 6

Investigation

Answer 6

Investigations are involved with checking for other causes of syncope

ECG - check for arrhythmia

Echocardiogram - check for outflow obstruction

Lying/standing blood pressure - check for orthostatic hypotension

Fasting blood glucose - check for DM/hypoglycaemia