Vasovagal syncope, or the common faint, is typically a benign condition that may be triggered by a combination of factors that provoke an episode of fainting. Even usually fit and healthy individuals may develop this during periods of stress and dehydration, as was seen during the football match last week. Treatment is usually conservative including: adequate hydration, particularly pre, during and post-exercise, rest and avoiding usual triggers, such as warm hot environments, and recognising “vulnerable” period such as stress / lack of sleep and intercurrent illnesses such diarrhoea, vomiting, or flu-like illnesses – and taking additional precaution during such periods.
For more information about vasovagal syncope, see http://www.stars.org.uk/conditions/syncope