Vasovagal syncope

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Symptoms

By Mayo Clinic staff

Before a faint due to vasovagal syncope, you may experience some of the following:

  • Skin paleness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Tunnel vision — your field of vision is constricted so that you see only what's in front of you
  • Nausea
  • Feeling of warmth
  • A cold, clammy sweat

When to see a doctor
Because fainting can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as heart or brain disorders, you may want to consult your doctor after a fainting spell, especially if you never had one before.

References
  1. Olshansky B. Neurocardiogenic (vasovagal) syncope. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed May 28, 2010.
  2. Strickberger SA, et al. AHA/ACCF Scientific statement on the evaluation of syncope. Circulation. 2006;113:316.
  3. Tan MP, et al. Vasovagal syncope in the older patient. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2008;51:599.
  4. Parry SW, et al. The management of vasovagal syncope. Quarterly Journal of Medicine. 1999;92:697.
DS00806 Aug. 7, 2010

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