Vasovagal

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Vasovagal

Vasovagal (pronounced vay-zo-VAY-gul) is a term that refers to a type of syncope or fainting spell that is caused by a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure. This drop leads to a reduction in blood flow to the brain, resulting in temporary loss of consciousness.

Etymology

The term "vasovagal" is derived from "vaso," which refers to the vasculature or blood vessels, and "vagal," which refers to the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve plays a key role in the body's autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions such as heart rate and blood pressure.

Related Terms

  • Syncope: A temporary loss of consciousness generally caused by insufficient oxygen in the brain.
  • Vagus nerve: The tenth cranial nerve that interfaces with the parasympathetic control of the heart, lungs, and digestive tract.
  • Blood pressure: The pressure of the blood in the circulatory system, often measured for diagnosis since it is closely related to the force and rate of the heartbeat and the diameter and elasticity of the arterial walls.
  • Heart rate: The speed of the heartbeat measured by the number of contractions (beats) of the heart per minute (bpm).
  • Autonomic nervous system: The part of the nervous system responsible for control of the bodily functions not consciously directed, such as breathing, the heartbeat, and digestive processes.

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