DR. JOHN'S CASE NOTES......................................................................... Bridge players can develop syndromes like no other group of individuals. The list is endless. One that seems to affect thousands across the world is called STENDAL'S SYNDROME. This condition triggers increased heartbeats, palpitations and dizziness. These symptoms are usually experienced by less experienced players, such as beginners who have stepped up ......for the first time....... into the competitive arenas of duplicate bridge. When the victim finds him/herself as declarer, faced with a tricky hand, aware of his partner's high expectations, and needing a cool head and the calm approach to steer the contract home......the syndrome locks in. Victims, go into a near epileptic state whereupon they completely fall to pieces. This syndrome was named after the 19th century French novelist who wrote of his experiences, when introduced to the woman of his dreams. He became so flustured and over-excited he completely fluffed his words, and wet himself. The opportunity to make a score was lost forever.