[Cough syncope as a cause of traffic accident]

The rare tussive syncope syndrome, which can lead to a road traffic accident, occurs almost solely in the male aged 40 years and over with a pyknic to athletic physique, who suffer from obstructive respiratory tract disease and/or pulmonary emphysema. Frequently there is a correlation between the illness and alcohol and tobacco consumption. Loss of consciousness lasting only a few seconds occurs a few seconds after a coughing attack leaving behind a short loss of memory. Tussive syncope can be a solitary event, but can also occur up to thirty times a day. In foro, characteristically the link between a heavy coughing and loss of consciousness as well as the type of person make diagnosis easier. The suitability of the subject to hold a driving licence should be judged carefully and on individual criteria.