What Is the Medical Term Neurocardiogenic Syncope?

Neurocardiogenic syncope, or vasovagal syncope, is a condition that causes fainting in people with no history of heart or neurological problems. This condition usually occurs when an individual stands up from a seated or lying position.

Causes

• Neurocardiogenic syncope causes blood to pool in the legs when a person stands up, according to the Heart Rhythm Society. People become lightheaded or they faint because normal amounts of blood do not flow to the heart and brain.

Lifestyle Triggers

• People with neurocardiogenic syncope can become faint after strenuous exercise, overheating or dehydration.

Other Triggers

• People with low blood pressure, patients who take diuretic drugs and individuals with reduced blood volume due to bleeding may experience neurocardiogenic syncope. Anxiety, panic attacks and depression may trigger fainting spells.

Medication

• Doctors may prescribe beta blocker drugs such as metoprolol or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants such as paroxetine to individuals who experience recurring episodes of neurocardiogenic syncope, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Other Treatments

• Patients with neurocardiogenic syncope may reduce blood pooling in their legs with elastic stockings or special foot and leg exercises. A physician may insert an electric pacemaker into a patient's chest to regulate heart rhythm and reduce fainting spells.