Vasovagal Syncope: Brendan’s Diagnosis and Treatment at Acibadem

What causes vasovagal syncope, and how can recurrent fainting episodes be evaluated and managed? In this video Brendan shares his own diagnosis and treatment journey at Acibadem, while Prof. Dr. Duhan Fatih Bayrak, cardiologist specialising in cardiac electrophysiology and heart rhythm disorders, explains the mechanisms behind vasovagal syncope.

Together, the medical explanation and the patient’s experience show why it matters to identify the cause of fainting, recognise individual triggers and build a treatment plan around the patient’s own symptoms and clinical findings — rather than treating every faint the same way.

Vasovagal syncope is a common cause of fainting in which the autonomic nervous system triggers a sudden drop in heart rate, blood pressure or both, temporarily reducing blood flow to the brain. Episodes may be associated with triggers such as prolonged standing, heat, dehydration, emotional stress, pain or medical procedures.

Evaluation may include a detailed medical history, electrocardiography, blood pressure and heart-rate assessment, rhythm monitoring, tilt-table testing and autonomic function testing. Depending on the diagnosis and the severity of symptoms, management may involve education about triggers, hydration strategies, appropriate salt intake, physical counter-pressure manoeuvres, exercise conditioning and, in selected patients, medication.

This story combines one patient’s experience with general medical information; it does not replace an individual consultation, and the causes of fainting, the tests needed and the treatment recommended vary from person to person. Learn more about the Cardiology department at Acibadem or request a medical opinion with your records.