About this topic
An electrical signal moves from the top of the heart to the bottom with each heartbeat. This signal makes your heart contract or squeeze. The squeeze is what pumps the blood through your body. ‚
Doctors look at the electrical signals of your heart by using a special test. It is an electrocardiogram or ECG. This test records the signal as a waveform with many parts. Doctors give each part a letter ¢ ˆ ’ P, Q, R, S, and T. The medical name for the electrical activity that happens between the Q and the T waves is called the QT interval. This interval shows the electrical activity of the lower chambers of the heart. Your body must control the timing of each heartbeat with care. One signal or heartbeat must end before the next one starts. ‚
Long QT syndrome is also known as LQTS. It is caused by electrical activity in the heart that is not normal. The heart starts a new heartbeat even before it has fully recovered from the last heartbeat. Then, the heart just shakes or quivers. It does not squeeze the right way. The body and brain do not get the right amount of oxygen. The normal heart rhythm must return right away or you may have serious problems and even die. ‚
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What are the causes?
- Inherited ¢ ˆ ’ This condition may be passed down from your parents and family. You may have problems with the way some minerals are handled by your heart.
- Acquired ¢ ˆ ’ Some drugs and illnesses may change the electrical signals in your heart. These include drugs to:
- Help with colds and infections
- Help with low mood
- Control diabetes
- Lower cholesterol level
What can make this more likely to happen?
You are more likely to have this illness if a family member also has it. Taking certain drugs may also raise your risk. So can conditions where you have low levels of potassium, magnesium, and sodium in the blood. ‚
What are the main signs?
- Fainting
- Fast heartbeat
- Abnormal heart rate and rhythm
- Seizures
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
The doctor will do an exam and ask about your history. Your doctor may order tests to learn more about your heart rate. These tests include: ‚
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) ¢ ˆ ’ This test monitors the hearts electrical activity. It gives details about how your heart beats. There are also small ECG monitors that you may wear for a day or a few days. These can record your hearts activity for a longer time.
- Nonexercise stress test ¢ ˆ ’ The doctor will give you a drug. This causes your heart to be stressed. Then, the doctor looks at how your heart responds to the stress.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) ¢ ˆ ’ This test monitors the electrical activity of the brain.
- Genetic testing ¢ ˆ ’ This is a blood test to check for changes in your genes.
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
Treatment focuses on controlling the hearts electrical activity and preventing sudden death. You may need: ‚
- Drugs ¢ ˆ ’ This may be new drugs or a change in the drugs you are taking.
- Medical tools like a pacemaker
- Lifestyle changes
- Your doctor may suggest surgery in some cases. Some people are helped with a device that keeps the heartbeat regular. Others need precise nerves cut to control the rhythm of the heart.
Are there other health problems to treat?
If LQTS is caused by some other health problem, the doctor may give you choices to manage or control that condition. ‚
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Avoid tiring activities and contact sports.
- Keep yourself relaxed. Stay away from situations that cause a lot of excitement, stress, or anger.
- Learn how to manage stress. You may practice relaxation methods such as deep breathing and yoga.
- Ask your doctor if you need to make changes to your diet.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Slow down heart rate
- Help abnormal heart rhythms
- Help your electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium
Will there be any other care needed?
- Tell your family and friends about your situation. Talk to them about how they can help.
- Avoid going to places alone. Having someone with you may prevent problems in case you faint.
- Always wear a medical ID that tells of your condition.
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
- Be careful of the drugs you take. Ask your doctor if the drugs you take may cause LQTS.
- Seek medical treatment right away for health problems that may cause LQTS.
Helpful tips
- You may talk to a specialist to talk about your fears and worries about this condition.
- Join a support group to get to know other people who have coped with the condition.
Where can I learn more?
American Heart Society ‚
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Arrhythmia/AboutArrhythmia/Conduction-Disorders_UCM_302046_Article.jsp ‚
Better Health Channel ‚
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Long_QT_syndrome ‚
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute ‚
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/qt/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚