Vagal discomfort: react as soon as you feel yourself leaving
Looking around in the doctor’s office or in a crowded and overheated store … this phenomenon, banal and usually not serious, has a name: it is vagal discomfort. “This is the most common type of fainting and fortunately the most benign,” explains general practitioner Dr. Isabelle Marchand. It is differentiated from serious loss of consciousness, because it occurs in very specific contexts and is always preceded by various symptoms. “
“The person does not suddenly lose consciousness, they sense the discomfort,” continues our specialist. A hot and confined atmosphere, prolonged standing, difficult digestion after a too heavy meal, the sight of blood, a strong emotion … and the neuro-cardiovascular system is playing tricks on us. The heart rate slows down, the blood pressure drops, causing a sudden decrease in the supply of oxygen to the brain, which makes you feel unwell. The symptoms are varied: sweating, intense fatigue, pallor, dizziness, ringing in the ears, nausea, need to get fresh air …
The only way to avoid true fainting is to lie down, if possible with your legs up, at the first sign of weakness. This will allow blood to quickly flow back to the head and oxygenate the brain. If lying down is not possible, the alternative is obviously to sit, but it is less effective. Always remember to loosen collar and belt to facilitate breathing.
Vagal discomfort: take the time to recover
Take the time to fully recover before gradually returning to your activities, otherwise the scenario will repeat itself. Of course, sometimes the vagal discomfort is so intense that you pass out for good. Be aware, however, that the simple fact of touching the ground allows the blood to invade the head again and therefore to regain its senses in a few moments.
“Vagal discomfort is not an emergency but, if it is repeated, you should talk to your doctor who will ensure that it is benign,” recommends Dr. Isabelle Marchand. And, even if there is no treatment, it can help you identify the favorable circumstances and prevent recurrence. »Two precautions: always have a bottle of water with you in overheated environments and do not stand too long.
