Sudden feeling of weakness, tinnitus (tinnitus), sweating, headache, black veil in front of the eyes ... Attention, you may be victim of vagal discomfort!

Brutal awakening, intense pain, strong heat ... Multiple causes

"It is related to vagal nerve dysfunction ; Also known as pneumo-gastric nerve, it manages the autonomic nervous system, which regulates the heart rate, digestion and certain hormonal secretions "explains Dr. Rania Ouddane. When it is stimulated, it can cause an imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems ... and the famous malaise in the wake.

The causes ? "They can be multiple, says the general practitioner: in hot weather, especially if the patient is dehydrated, in a confined atmosphere (including claustrophobic) or as a result of violent pain. Vaginal discomfort may also occur during a sudden awakening or abrupt transition from lying to standing. The body does not have time to get used to the change of position. Other causes include hypoglycemia, sudden physical exertion, and pregnancy.

Warning signs

When the vagal nerve is in a state of hyper stimulation, it triggers the secretion of acetylcholine. The hormone then generates a cascade of reactions.

Leading the way, the slowing of the heart rate and the fall of the blood pressure . The brain is less irrigated in blood, so oxygen, for a short time. Muscle weakness can lead to a fall or even loss of consciousness - also known as syncope.

The professional wants to be reassuring: " It is a malaise generally not serious , but it can be very impressive." Side signs, the victim becomes very pale - the blood vessels of the face being less irrigated, and it can s collapse like a doll. Those who experience vagal discomfort sometimes feel like they have a heart attack. It can cause loosening of the sphincters and a release of urine. "After a few questions about the symptoms, we reassure them," says Dr. Ouddane, "but if the discomfort is repeated, the patient should be referred to a cardiologist for a check-up."

The right actions in the face of a victim of vagal discomfort

When discomfort and collapse occur, the victim's head may strike a contending object with the possibility of trauma and bleeding.

At the first symptoms of vagal discomfort, there is no point in panicking. The procession of warning signs gives you time to sit down immediately - even on the ground - or to stop your vehicle if you are driving.

"If a loved one gives signs of discomfort, just help him to lie down and raise his legs to 90 ° , says Dr. Ouddane, pressing them on a wall or chair to facilitate venous return and sending blood to the brain. "

In case of unconsciousness, sprinkle the face with fresh water and lay the victim on the side, in the lateral safety position. If she is slow to return to her, in case of diabetes or heart fragility, call for help.

Better to prevent ...

Avoid vagal discomfort by drinking a lot when it's hot, getting to know you better and ... staying cool: "this phenomenon happens especially in people prone to stress or phobias," says the doctor.

"It is sometimes a symptom of somatization in the particularly anxious profile or an alert for very tired metabolisms. Spasmophilic sites are also prone to vagal nerve dysfunction because the vagal nerve can be compressed by a particularly intense intestinal spasm.

Relaxation practices or therapy can help.