Once a condition is accurately diagnosed, drivers can get medical help. Medications may help some drivers. Patients with supraventricular tachycardia may need cardiac ablation, a procedure which uses radiofrequency energy to destroy a tiny area of the heart in which the abnormal rhythm originates. Ventricular tachycardia may be treated with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. Patients with AV block and those with more serious cases of vasovagal syncope may need a pacemaker.
Treatment can be very successful in preventing another episode of syncope while driving.
The researchers in the Yale study report none of the treated patients from the study has since experienced any loss of consciousness. The information on this factsheet is not meant to substitute for a consultation with your physician or with another healthcare professional.