Long QT syndrome (patient information)
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Long QT syndrome |
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Long QT syndrome On the Web |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-In-Chief:; Assistant Editor(s)-In-Chief:
Overview
What are the symptoms of Long QT syndrome?
What causes Long QT syndrome?
Who is at highest risk?
Diagnosis
When to seek urgent medical care?
Treatment options
Lifestyle changes and medications can be used to help treat long QT syndrome. These are:
- Avoiding high intensity physical activity or stress.
- Including more potassium in the diet, with the help of a doctors supervision.
- Certain heart medications, such as beta blockers will prevent people from going into sudden cardiac arrest.
- Certain medical devices, such as an implantable cardiac difibrillator or a pacemaker can help to regulate the rhythm of the heart.
Where to find medical care for Long QT syndrome?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Condition
Prevention
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
People who are treated with lifestyle modifications and medications live longer than those who are not. For people who are not treated, half of them, mostly those with the inherited form of long QT syndrome, will die within 10 years.
Possible complications
Long QT syndrome can result in fatal heart arrhythmias and death.