Vasodepressor Syncope

Vasodepressor syncope is frequently observed, usually benign and self limiting process. Syncope in general terms refers to a sudden, transient loss of consciousness that is usually secondary to a period of cerebral ischemia.

Synonyms Of Syncope of Vasodepressor Syncope #

• Vasodepressor syncope

• Atrial bradycardia

• Benign faint

• Neurogenic syncope

• Psychogenic syncope

• Simple faint

• Vasovagal syncope

• Swoon

Predisposing Factors of Vasodepressor Syncope #

Psychogenic Factors #

• Fright

• Anxiety

• Emotional Stress

• Receipt of unwelcome news

• Pain, especially of a sudden and unexpected nature

Non-Psychogenic Factors #

• Exhaustion

• Poor physical condition

• Hot, humid and crowded environment

• Age between 16 to 35 years

• Hunger from dieting or a missed meal

• Sitting in upright or standing position

Clinical Manifestation of Vasodepressor Syncope #

Early signs and symptoms #

• Feeling of warmth

• Loss of color, pale or ashen-gray skin tone

• Heavy perspiration

• Complains of feeling “bad” or “faint”

• Nausea

• Blood pressure approximately at baseline

• Tachycardia

Late signs and symptoms #

• Pupillary dilation

• Yawning

• Hyperapnea

• Coldness in hands and feet

• Hypotension

• Bradycardia

• Visual disturbances

• Dizziness

• Loss of consciousness

Pathophysiology of Vasodepressor Syncope #

• Increase in anxiety causes increase in release of catecholamines

• Increase in catecholamines causes decrease in peripheral vascular resistance which leads to pooling of blood in peripheral organs

• Due to pooling of blood in peripherals cause decrease in atrial blood pressure which activates the compensatory mechanism

• Increase in heart rate, breathing is rapid, pallor and perspiration leads to occurance of decompensation

• This leads to the cause of hypotension and decrease in cerebral blood flow which ultimately leads to syncope

Management of Vasodepressor Syncope #

• Assess consciousness

• Activate office emergency team

• Position patient in supine position with feet elevated

• Assess and open airway

• Assess airway patency and breathing

• Assess circulation

• Activate EMS(emergency medical services) if recovery is not immediate

• Administer oxygen

• Monitor the vital signs

• Provide definitive management of unconsciouness using aromatic ammonia

• Administer atropine if bradycardia persists

• Maintain composure

• Arrange escort home after complete recovery

• If recovery is delayed activate EMS(emergency medical services)