What is a Vasovagal Syncope?

French President Nicolas Sarkozy made headlines the other day when he collapsed while jogging. The result of his collapse turned out to be a nerve condition called Vasovagal Syncope, a condition can be affect “as many as half of all people at least once in their life.” Generally the condition happens when blood pressure suddenly drops.

While syncope can occur as a result of another medical condition, it can also happen due to “anxiety, fear, pain or hunger” and when “a person goes from a sitting position to a standing one.”

How to know if you’re experiencing this disease? You might feel dizzy or sick to your stomach. You could also feel like you’re about to faint (and could do just that.) If you do pass out, you might feel confused. This condition can usually be managed effectively, so be sure to get yourself to the hospital if you feel any of the above symptoms.

Image: sxc.hu.