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Self-reported symptom burden; outcome in 418 patients from the Newcastle Vasovagal (Neurocardiogenic) cohort

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Steve Parry, Emerita Professor Julia Newton

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Abstract

Background: Natural history of Vasovagal syndrome (Neurocardiogenic; NCS) is unclear. Aim: To examine symptoms in a large cohort with head up tilt diagnosed NCS. Methods: Questionnaires were posted to 485 patients with NCS. Dataincluded demographic details, age at referral, presenting and on-going symptoms (syncope, dizziness and falls), symptom frequency (daily, weekly, monthly) and burden. Results: A total of 418 questionnaires were returned (response rate 86%), 67% female. Median age at first presentation 60 (range 10-90), with men younger (54 vs. 63; P = 0.01). Seventy percent presented with syncope. Median follow-up 5 years (1-8). At follow-up 147(35%) were asymptomatic. The asymptomatic group was older (73 vs. 65; P = 0.0001) with more males (39 vs. 29%; P = 0.04). Those presenting with syncope were more likely to be symptom-free than those with dizziness (P < 0.02). Symptom frequency was greatest for those reporting dizziness at follow-up (P < 0.05). Sixty (22%) reported symptoms never preventing activities [predominantly those reporting dizziness (P = 0.04)]. Although there was a significant reduction of symptoms overall, there was a significant increase in those reporting dizziness only (P < 0.0001). Conclusions: Of those with NCS, 35% will be symptom-free at 5 years regardless of presenting symptom or treatment received. © The Author 2008. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Association of Physicians. All rights reserved.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Ross R, Parry S, Norton M, Newton JL

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: QJM

Year: 2008

Volume: 101

Issue: 2

Pages: 127-135

ISSN (print): 1460-2725

ISSN (electronic): 1460-2393

Publisher: Oxford University Press

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/qjmed/hcm140

DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcm140

PubMed id: 18184666

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