When water hurts

Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 2009 Nov;32(11):e25-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2009.02521.x. Epub 2009 Aug 27.

Abstract

Deglutition syncope refers to an uncommon cause of neurally mediated syncope induced by swallowing. We briefly review a case of a 66-year-old man who experienced recurrent syncope episodes during ingestion of beverages, mainly water. Our investigations documented several short asymptomatic episodes of asystole and one prolonged complete atrioventricular block of around 15 seconds associated with the syncopal events, during swallowing. Barium x-ray and manometry evaluations revealed only a nonspecific esophageal dysmotility. An underlying sick-sinus syndrome was found on electrophysiologic study. A DDD pacemaker implantation was performed leading to total disappearance of patient's symptoms.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Atrioventricular Block / diagnosis
  • Atrioventricular Block / etiology*
  • Atrioventricular Block / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pacemaker, Artificial*
  • Syncope / complications*
  • Syncope / diagnosis*
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / etiology*
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / prevention & control*