What’s a vasovagal syncope?

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Vasovagal syncope is a fainting episode caused by an overly aggressive physical reflex that momentarily slows the flow of oxygen to the brain, causing the patient to lose consciousness. People refer to vasovagal syncope as faint joint, reflex syncope, neuromediated syncope, or neurocardiac syncope. While such faints are generally not harmful unless someone falls and injures themselves, fainting can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health problem such as a circulatory disorder, and for this reason it is important to see a doctor after fainting.

People can experience vasovagal syncope and be perfectly healthy. Some people experience an episode once or twice in their life, while others may experience numerous episodes. Fainting is usually caused by stress, an uncomfortable physical position, heat, dehydration, crowded spaces, or shock.

In a vasovagal episode, blood vessels dilate and the heart rate stays the same or slows down due to stimulation to the vagus nerve, which regulates, among other things, the heartbeat. The net result is that your blood pressure drops, causing blood to pool in your legs. The lowering of blood pressure makes it difficult to push blood to the brain and as a result, the patient passes out because the brain is deprived of oxygen. Patients often experience warning signs such as turning pale, feeling faint or nauseous, or seeing spots before passing out.

There are a few steps that can be taken to address vasovagal syncope if it’s a recurring problem. Sometimes medications can help the patient maintain their blood pressure to avoid fainting or dealing with stress reactions that cause a vague reaction. Drinking fluids and maintaining high fluid levels can be helpful, and some patients also benefit from breathing exercises and other stress coping tips that can help them feel more comfortable in stressful situations.

Patients who are prone to vasovagal syncope usually become familiar with the warning signs. When a patient knows what she might pass out, she is advised to sit or lie down and ask for space. Patients may also want to warn friends and family members so they are not startled by fainting episodes. In cases where management and treatments are not effective, management usually focuses on keeping patients out of settings where fainting may occur and on encouraging patients to talk when they are about to pass out, so people around them can make sure they are safe.

Recurring fainting episodes can be a cause for concern. Diagnostic tests can be done to learn more about why someone is passing out to rule out potential causes other than vasovagal episodes.

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