Submitted by david (not verified) on Tue, 05/20/2008 - 7:29pm.
I too was diagnosed with vasovagal syncope or cardio-inhibited syncope. This came after a tilt table test in which I passed out and my heart stopped for 9 seconds (you got me beat by a second). The cardiologist was very surprised at this result. It only took one tilt table test. Since my syncope was dominated by a severe drop in heart rate, medication was not recommended for fear of slowing my heart rate even more. The treatment was a pacemaker. I have had it now over one year. It monitors my heart rate and prevents it from dropping too quickly and from falling below 50 beats per minute. I must say, that initially I was shocked. I was 41 and physically active, playing soccer regularly. Getting a pacemaker was for someone much older. However, the last time I fainted was while driving on an interstate going 70 mph. I just barely pulled over before it all went black. It was difficult convincing my doctors and wife and kids that my condition was under control and nothing bad was going to happen. Since my pacemaker, I have not had any episodes, and I am getting a stronger sense of security in my daily activities and a new found appreciation for the little device. Good luck on your quest for understanding.
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I too was diagnosed with vasovagal syncope or cardio-inhibited syncope. This came after a tilt table test in which I passed out and my heart stopped for 9 seconds (you got me beat by a second). The cardiologist was very surprised at this result. It only took one tilt table test. Since my syncope was dominated by a severe drop in heart rate, medication was not recommended for fear of slowing my heart rate even more. The treatment was a pacemaker. I have had it now over one year. It monitors my heart rate and prevents it from dropping too quickly and from falling below 50 beats per minute. I must say, that initially I was shocked. I was 41 and physically active, playing soccer regularly. Getting a pacemaker was for someone much older. However, the last time I fainted was while driving on an interstate going 70 mph. I just barely pulled over before it all went black. It was difficult convincing my doctors and wife and kids that my condition was under control and nothing bad was going to happen. Since my pacemaker, I have not had any episodes, and I am getting a stronger sense of security in my daily activities and a new found appreciation for the little device. Good luck on your quest for understanding.