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Respiratory changes in vasovagal syncope
A S Kurbaan1, M Erickson, M E Petersen
1Department of Cardiology, London Chest Hospital, United Kingdom. a_kurbaan@hotmail.com
Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology
|June 27, 2000
Summary
Head-up tilt tests reveal significant cardiorespiratory changes in vasovagal syncope patients. Increased tidal volume and minute ventilation during syncope suggest respiratory sensors may aid early diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Respiratory Physiology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Head-up tilt testing is used to diagnose vasovagal syncope.
- Cardiovascular changes are known to occur during this test.
- Respiratory changes accompanying these cardiovascular changes are less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate cardiorespiratory changes during head-up tilt test-induced vasovagal syncope.
- To compare these changes between patients who experience syncope and those who do not.
Main Methods:
- The Westminster protocol (45-minute, 60-degree head-up tilt) was used.
- 29 patients were studied, divided into syncope-positive (14) and syncope-negative (15) groups.
- Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), tidal volume, and minute volume were measured.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in BP, HR, tidal volume, and minute volume were observed between the positive and negative groups during late tilt.
- In the positive group, BP and HR decreased, while tidal volume and minute volume significantly increased from early to late tilt.
- No comparable cardiorespiratory changes were noted in the negative group.
Conclusions:
- Significant differences in cardiorespiratory parameters exist between patients with and without tilt-induced vasovagal syncope.
- Increased respiratory volumes during syncope suggest a potential role for respiratory sensors in diagnosis.
- Respiratory monitoring may offer opportunities for earlier and more effective therapeutic interventions.