Stokes-Adams Attack
Medical Questions » Illnesses » Stokes-Adams Attack
| Name: Stokes-Adams Attack |
| Also known as: Adams-Stokes Syndrome |
| Complication of irregular heart beat. |
Causes of Stokes-Adams Attack
Sudden slowing of the heart beat from an electrical problem within the heart resulting in inadequate blood supply to the brain. Often occurs after a heart attack, may have no apparent cause, or may be due to a side-effect of medication. |
Symptoms of Stokes-Adams Attack
Sudden faint, convulsive movements, and slow heart rate or multiple missed heart beats. Facial flushing occurs for a minute or so on recovery. |
Tests for Stokes-Adams Attack
Monitoring of heart electrical activity for a prolonged period (Holter monitor) while maintaining normal lifestyle until an attack occurs and heart electrical problem can be identified. |
Treatment for Stokes-Adams Attack
Appropriate medications to regulate heart rate or surgical implantation of an electrical pacemaker.
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Complications of Stokes-Adams Attack of its treatment
Injuries from fall during attack. Rarely may cause permanent damage to heart leading to further heart complications. |
Likely Outcome of Stokes-Adams Attack
Recovery from sudden attack usually rapid, but recurrences frequent. Usually well controlled by appropriate treatment once cause identified. Good result from pacemaker. |
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