Condition where stimulation of a hyperactive carotid sinus causes a severe drop in blood pressure due to vasodilation and bradycardia resulting in syncope.
Carotid sinus hypersensitivity is a condition primarily observed in older individuals, characterized by an excessive sensitivity of the carotid sinus. The carotid sinus is a structure located within the common carotid artery of the neck, responsible for regulating blood pressure.
The carotid sinus is a small pocket located at the point where the carotid artery divides into two branches. Within this pocket, there are sensors responsible for continuously monitoring blood pressure. When blood pressure rises, the carotid sinus transmits signals to the brain, prompting the dilation of blood vessels and a decrease in heart rate. These responses collectively work to lower the blood pressure.
Carotid sinus syndrome is a condition characterized by an exaggerated response of the carotid sinus. Even simple movements like suddenly turning the neck or coughing can trigger the sensors within the sinus. Consequently, the brain excessively slows the heart rate and lowers blood pressure, leading to fainting episodes in affected individuals. To mitigate this problem, a pacemaker can be inserted, which helps maintain a normal heart rate by overriding any inappropriate signals originating from the carotid sinus.
Carpal tunnel syndrome manifests as numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb, index finger, and middle fingers. This condition occurs due to the compression of the median nerve at the wrist. The carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway formed by the carpal bones of the wrist and a ligament that covers them, houses the median nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome can affect one or both hands and may be accompanied by weakness in the thumb. Symptoms often worsen during nighttime.
Carpal tunnel syndrome commonly affects individuals who engage in constant, repetitive hand movements, such as those using computer keyboards. Additionally, the condition can occur without an apparent cause in middle-aged women. It is also prevalent during pregnancy, among women using oral contraceptives, individuals experiencing premenstrual syndrome, and both men and women with rheumatoid arthritis, myxoedema (thickening and coarsening of the skin and other body tissues), and acromegaly (abnormal enlargement of the skull, jaw, hands, feet, and internal organs).
In many cases, carpal tunnel syndrome resolves spontaneously without requiring treatment. However, for persistent symptoms, an effective approach involves the injection of a corticosteroid medication beneath the ligament. This treatment method can help alleviate the symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Another option for alleviating the pressure on the nerve is surgical intervention, which involves cutting the ligament. By surgically releasing the ligament, the pressure on the nerve is relieved, providing relief from the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Episodes of dizziness, fainting, and occasionally seizures, accompanied by a decrease in blood pressure and a reduction in heart rate. These episodes result from an excessive sensitivity of the carotid sinus. They can happen suddenly, follow emotional distress, or be triggered by pressure applied to the carotid sinus.