Neurocardiogenic Syncope Or Neutrogena Syncope
Syncope is the medical term for fainting or passing out. Neurogenic syncope is also known as vasovagal syncope or neurally mediated syncope. This is a syndrome in which the brain fails to adequately regulate the body’s blood pressure and/or heart rate.
Every time a person stands, gravity draws blood into the legs. The brain senses this and causes an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, forcing the blood back up to the heart and brain. When a person has neurogenic syncope, sensors in the brain do not function appropriately causing the heart rate and/or blood pressure to fall too low, resulting in a loss of consciousness or fainting.
Prior to fainting, some people feel dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or have a cold sweat. Some may feel their heart racing or pounding. This syndrome is common in adolescence, especially following periods of rapid growth, although it may occur at any age. This syndrome, or loss of consciousness, is not dangerous or life threatening, but the result of a fall may be harmful.
Diagnosis
The tilt table test is used to diagnose syncope (fainting spells). This test helps determine how your body responds to changes in position. During the test, you lie on a table can be moved to an upright position , during which time your symptoms, heart rate, and blood pressure are continuously monitored.
The purpose of the tilt table test is to bring on syncope (fainting) under controlled conditions with medical staff present to evaluate your response to the test.
The upright position during a tilt table test causes blood to collect in the lower part of your body, especially the legs. As a result of the upright position, less blood returns to the heart, less blood is available for the heart to pump, resulting in the blood pressure dropping to a lower level.
Normally the nerves that control the function of the heart and blood vessels are able to maintain the blood pressure by increasing the heart rate and tightening the blood vessels. If a person is susceptible to vasovagal syncope, their nerves do not properly function results. As a result, the heart rate slows down, the blood pressure drops and the person loses consciousness. After the person lies down in a float position, normal blood flow occurs and he or she regains consciousness.
The test is considered abnormal, or positive, if the tilting to an upright position causes loss of consciousness accompanied by a low blood pressure and/or a slow heart rate.
The tilt table test helps doctors determine whether or not you are susceptible to vasovagal syncope. The information gained from this test helps your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and develop the best treatment plan for you.
There are several things that may be done to prevent syncopal spells from occurring:
- Drink plenty of non-caffeinated beverages. Juice, water, or sports drinks are best.
- Decrease the use of caffeinated beverages and alcohol.
- Increase use of table salt.
- Lie down immediately upon feeling symptoms. Remain lying until symptoms pass, usually about 10 minutes.
- Avoid being overheated or dehydrated.
- Some people require use of medications called beta-blockers.