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Syncope: Investigation and treatment

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Abstract

Syncope is a common condition that can be both disabling and expensive to treat. Although investigative modalities are sometimes required, a diagnosis can often be made with a good history and physical exam. Recent reports have identified specific historic features that are more suggestive of cardiac syncope as compared with vasovagal syncope and seizures. Advances in ambulatory electro-cardiography (in particular the implantable loop recorder) have proven invaluable in both difficult-to-diagnose syncope, and in advancing our knowledge of its mechanisms. When clear dysrhythmias are manifest, appropriate therapies are self-evident. However, recurrent vasovagal syncope continues to be a condition that can be difficult to treat. Fortunately, there are well-conducted trials of both pharmacologic therapies (β-blockers, alpha agonists, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and nonpharmacologic treatments (orthostatic physical training and dual-chamber pacemakers) that should provide more guidance in the near future.

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  1. Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Health Sciences Centre, 3330 Hospital Drive, NW, T2N 4N1, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

    Satish R. Raj MD & Robert S. Sheldon MD, PhD

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Raj, S.R., Sheldon, R.S. Syncope: Investigation and treatment. Curr Cardiol Rep 4, 363–370 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11886-002-0035-3

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