Abstract

Answer B. Bradycardia
Vasovagal syncope typically presents with bradycardia, pallor, nausea and transient hypotension, often triggered by pain, fear or medical procedures such as vaccination. In contrast, anaphylaxis is more commonly associated with tachycardia, airway or breathing compromise, and mucocutaneous features such as urticaria or angio-oedema, although rash may be absent. While hypotension and sudden onset can occur in both conditions, bradycardia strongly favours a vasovagal episode, a key distinction highlighted in guidance on differentiating anaphylaxis from its mimics in primary care.
InnovAiT article: Anaphylaxis in general practice. DOI: 10.1177/17557380261419014.
