To make an appointment for expert consultation for a suspected or known inherited cardiomyopathy or arrhythmia condition, contact us toll-free at 888-287-1082 and ask to speak with our program nurse coordinator. Please visit our Make a Cardiovascular Appointment page for more information.

Individuals with long QT syndrome may have symptoms from abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias), including fainting episodes or seizures. Arrhythmias occur during exercise in some forms of Long QT Syndrome, but may also occur at rest. There is a large amount of variability in the risk of arrhythmias among individuals with long QT syndrome, even within the same family. 

Evaluation of the whole family is important since the condition is often passed on to the next generation of a family but may not cause symptoms initially. The specific type of long QT syndrome, identified through genetic testing, has a large impact on recommendations for treatment and risk evaluation. An important part of evaluation is determining the personalized risk level for each individual with long QT syndrome and providing guidance in decisions for implantable defibrillators (ICDs) that prevent sudden death in high risk individuals. 

Also, certain medications prescribed for a variety of other conditions must be avoided in individuals with long QT syndrome. High intensity exercise or sports may increase arrhythmia risk, and thoughtful, personalized counseling to set guidelines is often needed.