How can neurocardiogenic syncope be cured?

Diagnosing vasovagal syncope often involves ruling out other possible causes of your fainting — particularly heart-related problems. These tests may include:

Electrocardiogram. This test records the electrical signals your heart produces. It can detect irregular heart rhythms and other cardiac problems. You may need to wear a portable monitor for at least a day or as long as a month.

Echocardiogram. This test uses ultrasound imaging to view the heart and look for conditions, such as valve problems, that can cause fainting.

Exercise stress test. This test studies heart rhythms during exercise. It's usually conducted while you walk or jog on a treadmill.

Blood tests. Your doctor may look for conditions, such as anemia, that can cause or contribute to fainting spells.

Tilt table test

If no heart problems appear to cause your fainting, your doctor may suggest you undergo a tilt table test. For a tilt table test:

You lie flat on your back on a table.

The table changes position, tilting you upward at various angles.

A technician monitors your heart rhythms and blood pressure to see if the postural changes affect them.

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Echocardiogram

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)

Stress test

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Treatment

In most cases of vasovagal syncope, treatment is unnecessary. Your doctor may help you identify your fainting triggers and discuss ways you might avoid them.

However, if you experience vasovagal syncope often enough to interfere with your quality of life, your doctor may suggest trying one or more of the following remedies.

Medications

A drug called fludrocortisone acetate that's normally used to treat low blood pressure may be helpful in preventing vasovagal syncope. Selective serotonin inhibitors may also be used.

Therapies

Your doctor may recommend ways to decrease the pooling of blood in your legs. These may include foot exercises, wearing compression stockings or tensing your leg muscles when standing.

You may need to increase salt in your diet if you don't usually have high blood pressure. Avoid prolonged standing — especially in hot, crowded places — and drink plenty of fluids.

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