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From: mrschoeman@mweb.co.za
I am 34 year old male and only recently started having VV attacks - the condition is common in my family - both my mother and sister suffer from VV attacks. I have read many of the posts and I think the only thing I can add is to say I manage the condition by recognising that I am going to have an attack - before I pass out. I lost consciousness during my first attack but have since learned to recognise the precursors. As soon as I feel nausea, wet palms, stomach contractions, slight disorientation (especially after or while eating) I immediately lie down and raise my legs (against a wall) or sit and place my head between my knees. I have no qualms doing this where ever I am. The attack normally lasts 10 to 20 min and then I am ok to get up, I feel unsettled after an attack but normally I am fine to carry on with what I was doing. A cold water or ice behind the neck also helps. For me one of the most difficult problems was dealing with the psycological aspect, after you have the first attack your mind tends to play tricks on you - once you recognise what is happening it is easier to prevent panic (hyperventilating, palpitations etc) which make the attacks more intense.