11 Startling Signs You Might Be Experiencing Vasovagal Syncope
Vasovagal syncope is a condition characterized by fainting, triggered by the body’s heightened response to certain stimuli. Common triggers include intense emotional distress or the sight of blood. These triggers cause a sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate, reducing blood flow to the brain and resulting in a brief loss of consciousness. While vasovagal syncope is generally harmless and often doesn't require medical treatment, the fainting episodes can lead to injuries from falls. In some cases, doctors may recommend additional testing to rule out underlying cardiovascular issues or other serious conditions that could cause similar symptoms. Understanding the signs and triggers of vasovagal syncope is key to managing the condition and preventing potential complications. We've expanded our list to 11 startling warning signs to watch out for.
1. Blurred Vision And Tunnel Vision
Prior to fainting, vasovagal syncope patients might experience blurred vision and tunnel vision. Tunnel vision causes the normal field of vision to narrow until an individual is only able to see the objects immediately in front of them. If an individual knows they're prone to vasovagal syncope episodes, tunnel vision can be a warning sign they need to sit down or lie down. Sometimes sitting down can prevent a fainting episode, and even when fainting does occur, an individual is much less likely to injure themselves if they're already on the ground. With vasovagal syncope episodes, the blurry or tunnel vision will occur after exposure to a trigger.
2. Pale And Clammy Skin
It's common for individuals to experience pale and clammy skin prior to fainting. They may appear paler than usual to others as well because of the sudden decrease in blood flow throughout the body. A cold and clammy sweat might break out over the skin. Clammy skin tends to be related to sweating, though other causes of clammy skin include excessive sweating, fever, hot flashes, an overactive thyroid, or a heart attack. When caused by a heart attack, the clammy skin tends to be accompanied by chest pain, pain throughout the arms, back, neck, or jaw, and overall lightheadedness. If patients experience clammy skin and a fainting episode without any apparent trigger, it's important to find the cause. However, with vasovagal syncope episodes, recovery generally just involves resting until the body naturally restores its usual blood pressure.
