Disease
Q-T Syndrome (Long QT Syndrome)
Overview of Q-T Syndrome (Long QT Syndrome)
Long QT Syndrome is a heart rhythm condition that affects the heart’s electrical activity. It causes a delay in the heart’s repolarisation process, visible as a prolonged QT interval on an ECG. This delay can make individuals vulnerable to sudden, potentially life-threatening arrhythmias, especially during stress, exercise or sleep. While it may be inherited or acquired through medications or other conditions, many people remain unaware they have it until symptoms appear. Early detection and proper management are essential to prevent complications.
Types of Q-T Syndrome (Long QT Syndrome)
- Congenital Long QT Syndrome: Passed down genetically and usually diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.
- Acquired Long QT Syndrome: Triggered by certain medications, electrolyte imbalances, or underlying medical conditions.
- LQT1, LQT2, LQT3 Subtypes: These genetic subtypes differ in causes and triggers—for instance, LQT1 is often exercise-related, while LQT2 may be triggered by emotions or sound.
Symptoms of Q-T Syndrome (Long QT Syndrome)
- Fainting or blackouts (especially after physical activity or emotional stress)
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeats
- Seizure-like episodes without neurological causes
- Sudden cardiac arrest or sudden death (in severe, untreated cases)
- No symptoms in some individuals, detected only during an ECG
Causes of Q-T Syndrome
- Inherited mutations in genes affecting cardiac ion channels
- Certain medications such as antibiotics, antidepressants or antipsychotics
- Electrolyte disturbances, especially low potassium, calcium, or magnesium
- Eating disorders or prolonged fasting
- Medical conditions like hypothyroidism or bradycardia
- Structural heart abnormalities
Complications in Q-T Syndrome
- Sudden cardiac arrest, especially in undiagnosed patients
- Dangerous arrhythmias like Torsades de Pointes
- Seizures due to reduced blood flow to the brain
- Accidents caused by fainting episodes
- Risk of death if not diagnosed and treated properly
Risk Factors of Long QT Syndrome
- Family history of long QT or sudden cardiac death
- Known genetic mutations in heart rhythm genes
- Use of medications that prolong the QT interval
- Electrolyte imbalances, especially in athletes or patients with eating disorders
- Female gender is more prone to longer QT intervals and arrhythmias
- Existing heart conditions or prior arrhythmia episodes
Preventions of Q-T Syndrome (Long QT Syndrome)
- Regular ECG screenings in people with a family history
- Avoidance of QT-prolonging medications
- Monitoring and correcting electrolyte levels regularly
- Genetic counseling and testing in affected families
- Education on warning signs and triggers
- Use of wearable cardiac monitors in high-risk individuals
Diagnosis of Long QT Syndrome
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Measures QT interval and detects abnormalities
- Holter Monitor: Tracks heart rhythm over 24–48 hours
- Stress Test: Evaluates QT response during exercise
- Genetic Testing: Identifies mutations linked to congenital LQTS
- QTc Calculation: Corrected QT interval is assessed using formulas to account for heart rate
- Family Screening: ECGs and genetic tests for family members
Treatments of Long QT Syndrome
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoid triggers like sudden noise or intense exertion
- Medications: Beta-blockers to control heart rhythm
- Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD): For patients at high risk of cardiac arrest
- Pacemaker in Some Cases: To stabilize heart rhythm
- Medication Review: Stopping drugs that prolong QT interval
- Potassium and Magnesium Supplements: If deficiencies are found
Prognosis of Q-T Syndrome
- With early diagnosis and proper treatment, most people lead normal lives
- Risk of arrhythmia-related events is greatly reduced with medications and ICD
- Lifelong monitoring may be needed for inherited forms
- Periodic follow-up with ECGs helps track the QT interval
- Prognosis improves significantly with genetic counseling and family screening
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Specialised cardiology consultations with ECG and QTc interval evaluation
- Access to genetic testing and expert cardiac electrophysiologists
- Personalised treatment plans, including ICD implantation if needed
- Lifestyle modification counseling for safe exercise and stress management
- Second opinions on medication management and QT-prolonging risks
- Continuous care coordination for international patients and long-term follow-up
- Affordable treatment packages and quick appointment scheduling
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- Is my QT interval considered prolonged or normal?
- Could my symptoms be linked to Long QT Syndrome?
- What triggers should I avoid?
- Do I need to stop my current medications?
- Should my family be tested too?
- Will I need an ICD or just medication?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- Clear explanation of what a prolonged QT interval means
- Review of your family history and genetic risks
- ECG interpretation and clarification of your QTc results
- Personalised treatment options explained in simple language
- Emotional support and safety tips for daily life
- Help deciding on medication changes if QT-prolonging drugs are involved
- Guidance on when to seek emergency help
- Regular follow-up plans and ECG tracking