Vaso-Vagal Discussion

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vasovagal syncope

From: David

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I became aware, after a recent black out following a sporting event, that I have apparently suffered from this syndrome all of my adult life. I can recall several episodes of syncope whilst at school, in the armed forces and later as I reached late adult life. It is not a common event but will occur if I become exhausted and dehydrated, particularly on a hot day. I underwent recent cardiac assessment and came through with flying colours with BP 120/78, resting pulse 64 and no untoward findings on an echocardiogram. For a 183 cm sixty year old who weighs 79kg, I felt vindicated about my health and life style. However when subjected to a four hour fast and performing the tilt table test, I lasted for four minutes in the upright position before I fainted. Fainting is fortunately a pleasant experience for me with no nausea or discomfort - sort of waking from a nice dream. The problem becomes what you hit on the way to terra firma. I have adjusted to the situation and avoid the extreme duress of exhaustion and dehydration and am just a little careful about leaping to my feet.


This web site is not a substitute for a thorough medical evaluation and diagnosis of your vaso-vagal type symptoms.  Medical treatment and diagnosis is the only acceptable initial response to these serious symptoms since they might present from any number of life threatening and treatable illnesses. It is for you and your physician to rule out more serious illnesses; Please don't use this online forum as an alternative to getting responsible medical attention and being under the care of a physician for the duration of any unknown, suspected or dangerous vaso-vagal syndrome symptoms.
Last changed: June 22, 2007