How is reflex syncope treated?
Sep 09, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Reflex syncope should be treated according to its type, such as carotid sinus syncope, physiological reflex syncope, and vasovagal syncope. For carotid sinus syncope, patients should avoid wearing high-collared clothing and may be treated with amphetamine or propantheline. Patients with physiological reflex syncope should receive patient education. For vasovagal syncope, when adverse reactions occur, the patient should immediately sit down and receive an injection of hypertonic glucose solution.
Reflex syncope requires targeted treatment based on its specific subtype, such as carotid sinus syncope, physiologic reflex syncope, and vasovagal syncope.
1. Carotid Sinus Syncope
Patients with carotid sinus syncope should avoid wearing stiff-collared or high-necked clothing in daily life to prevent inadvertent pressure on the carotid sinus during sudden neck rotation. For patients with more severe symptoms, medications such as amphetamine or propantheline may be prescribed under medical supervision, yielding relatively favorable therapeutic outcomes.
2. Physiologic Reflex Syncope
Physiologic reflex syncope is typically triggered by psychological factors; therefore, pharmacologic treatment is generally ineffective. Prevention is the primary strategy. Psychoeducational interventions conducted under the guidance of a mental health professional can yield satisfactory results.
3. Vasovagal Syncope
In patients experiencing vasovagal syncope, immediate sitting is recommended upon onset of prominent prodromal symptoms—such as nausea or dizziness—to prevent falls. The patient should also be promptly moved to a well-ventilated area, and hypertonic glucose solution may be administered intravenously under physician guidance.
