Synonym: deglution syncope, esophageal syncope
Clinical features:
(1) dizziness, lightheadedness, faintness or loss of consciousness associated with swallowing and/or eating
(2) evidence of bradycardia, arteriovenous block and/or hypotension
(3) exclusion of other causes
Drinking a cold carbonated beverage is a common triggering event.
Factors that may initiate or potentiate the syndrome:
(1) myocardial infarction
(2) intrinsic heart disease
(3) following thoracic surgery
(4) drugs
(5) achalasia
(6) esophageal or bronchial cancer
A patient with bradycardia or AV block may benefit from a cardiac pacemaker.
