2010 BC Guide in Determining Fitness to Drive

Chapter 22: SyncopeBACKGROUND22.1 About syncopeSyncope refers to a partial or complete loss of consciousness, usually resulting from a temporaryreduction in blood flow to the brain. The onset of syncope is relatively rapid and recovery isgenerally prompt, spontaneous and complete. The non-medical term for syncope is fainting.Syncope has many different causes, including cardiovascular disease and neurological disorders.In some cases, no underlying cause can be found.The following are the major types of syncope: vasovagal syncope postural syncope, and cardiac syncope.The most common types of syncope are vasovagal (neurocardiogenic) and cardiac syncope.Vasovagal syncopeVasovagal or neurocardiogenic syncope refers to syncope that is triggered by an exaggerated andinappropriate nervous system response to a particular stimulus. The response is characterized byalterations in heart rate and blood flow, with a subsequent reduction in blood pressure. Thestimulus can be any of a wide range of events such as: dehydration intense emotional stress anxiety fear pain hunger, or the use of alcohol or drugs.Stimuli can also include forceful coughing, turning of the neck or wearing a tight collar (carotidsinus hypersensitivity), or urinating (micturition syncope).Postural syncopePostural syncope is syncope that results from a sudden drop in blood pressure immediately afterstanding or sitting up. It can be a side-effect of some medications or may be caused bydehydration or medical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.288