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Increased orthostatic tolerance following moderate exercise training in patients with unexplained syncope
1Institute for Cardiovascular Research, University of Leeds, UK.
Heart (British Cardiac Society)
|March 5, 1999
Summary
Simple exercise training significantly improves symptoms and orthostatic tolerance in patients with syncope. This program increases blood volume and cardiorespiratory fitness without raising resting blood pressure.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Orthostatic stress can trigger syncope (fainting) or near syncope in susceptible individuals.
- Low orthostatic tolerance is a common issue in patients experiencing unexplained syncope.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if moderate exercise training enhances blood volume and orthostatic tolerance.
- To assess the impact of a structured exercise program on patients with syncope and orthostatic intolerance.
Main Methods:
- Open study involving 14 patients with unexplained syncope and low orthostatic tolerance.
- Measurements included plasma/blood volumes, orthostatic tolerance (head-up tilt with lower body suction), baroreceptor sensitivity, and cardiorespiratory fitness.
- Patients completed a 5BX/XBX exercise training program.
Main Results:
- 12 out of 14 patients demonstrated improved cardiorespiratory fitness post-training.
- All 12 improved patients experienced symptom relief, increased blood volume, and enhanced orthostatic tolerance.
- Baroreceptor sensitivity decreased, and resting blood pressure remained unchanged despite improved tolerance.
Conclusions:
- Moderate exercise training is a viable management strategy for syncope patients with poor orthostatic tolerance.
- Exercise improves symptoms and increases orthostatic tolerance without adverse effects on resting blood pressure.