syncope

[Chelston]

Hi, I am 65 and blacked out whilst driving about ten months ago. Have received numerous tests an an EP study; the latter proving negative resulting in me receiving an implanted loop recorder. The Electrophysiologist said that I had some sort of seizure, which is simply inexplicable. My Cardiologist has challenged the lack of diagnosis but on a personal note I feel my life is on hold until the next event happens! I have VT and bradycardia symptoms but as yet still to receive any clear diagnosis and prognosis. Has anyone else experienced similar challenges? Thanks

[Hidden]

Unfortunately I can't help you on your medical condition, and sympathise with your situation, but suggest that you stop driving if you have not already done so. Apart from likely having invalid insurance cover you may be a danger to both yourself and others. Your driving license might also be invalidated. Hope you get sorted soon.

[Circular]

I had several episodes of syncope (twice while driving - very scary ) but with no clear diagnosis. Whenever I went to get checked my doctor found nothing alarming on the ecg readout. It was only when I had an event in hospital while hooked up to an ecg machine and the details were recorded that the medics acted. Diagnosis was Sick Sinus Syndrome.

I had a pacemaker fitted the following day and haven’t had any episodes since. That was two and a half years ago now.

I hope you get sorted. I expect the loop-recorder will catch the evidence to allow an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

[Stanley18 in reply to Circular]

Very similar experience. Tests for heart and seizures showed nothing. Loop recorder eventually picked up a pause. Pacemaker then fitted.

Please be careful Chelston An episode whilst driving is very alarming. I had a pause on the landing; I carry a 5” scar on my head from the impact with furniture at the bottom of the stairs. I was in a neck brace for eight hours. I wish that I had wrapped myself in cotton wool as soon as I knew that there was something wrong.

[Chelston in reply to Stanley18]

Hi, thanks, your event sounds pretty awful. Hope you are ok now and all under control? The issue for me is much the same; I know something is wrong but my Cardiologist cannot make a diagnosis. Seems odd when my pulse hovers between 48-60 and I also have pauses which are alarming! Regards

[Stanley18 in reply to Chelston]

Absolutely fine now, thank you. Everything changed for the better when I received my pacemaker ❤️ Riding my bike again and living the life that I had before.

[Chelston in reply to Circular]

Hi, pleased that you eventually got matters sorted and under control. It must have been very frustrating not to have an accurate diagnosis when you always are aware that things are not as they should be! I am hoping the ILR will detect the problem….., preferably when I am not walking down steps or riding my bike!! Regards

[fishonabike]

Sorry i have nothing to offer concerning your possible diagnosis but i do hope you are not driving - if your licence has not already been withdrawn and you have an accident your insurance company could refuse to pay out, even if it's not your fault - you have had a change in your health circumstances which should be reported to your insurers if you continue to drive

sorry to sound so grim but this is serious as other people are also at risk

[Chelston in reply to fishonabike]

Hi, thanks, haven’t driven since the event and still having more tests so being chauffeured around by my wife! My Cardiologist has suggested genetic testing which is pretty scary for us as family!

[fishonabike in reply to Chelston]

I understand this must be a very worrying time for you and makes extra demands on you and your family. After my own heart incident I was lucky that my husband was always available to drive me as we are both retired, but I know it can be difficult for people with busy schedules and many demands on their time

I hope you get a helpful diagnosis soon and that it leads to a resolution of your issue.