Long QT Syndrome. Long QT syndrome is a rare heart rhythm disorder. It causes a very rapid heartbeat.

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Long QT syndrome

Long QT syndrome is a rare heart rhythm disorder. It causes a very rapid heartbeat. These quick heart beats can trigger a sudden seizure or fainting spell. Sometimes, the heart beat so quickly for so long that is causes sudden death. Long QT syndrome is a rare disorder; however it is a severe, fatal illness. Symptoms usually appear during childhood and young adulthood.

There is no known cure for long QT syndrome; however, there are several treatments. Often, a combination of different treatments is used. One possible treatment option for long QT syndrome is an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is a small device that is used to help treat irregular heartbeats, in this case, those caused by long QT syndrome. An IDC is placed in the chest or abdomen. It used electrical pulses or shocks to control arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). ICD's are especially used in cases where arrhythmias are life-threatening and may cause SCA (sudden cardiac arrest). SCA can happen in those with long QT syndrome and most often causes death. The heart has an electrical system which naturally controls rate and rhythm of the heartbeats. With every