This Medical Edge Weekend episode features Mayo Clinic cardiologist, Dr. Michael Ackerman, talking about Long QT Syndrome.
To hear Dr. Ackerman talk about Long QT syndrome, click here.
This Medical Edge Weekend episode features Mayo Clinic cardiologist, Dr. Michael Ackerman, talking about Long QT Syndrome.
To hear Dr. Ackerman talk about Long QT syndrome, click here.
20 Comments
What is the most accurate way to test for LQTS? Are there any changes that you’re aware of, that will make it mandatory to test for LQTS in young people as part of their physical?
A Facebook group you may want to check out deals with LQTS. It’s called LQTS Kids and Families. http://www.facebook.com/groups/193978400681765/#!/groups/3134910313/
We’d love to have you.
I am wondering what your recommendations for a 40 year old person just finding out they are genetically positive for LQTS1? Initial EKG does not show a prolonged QT and person has had no previous symptoms. Just how much does the risk of suffering a cardiac event decrease with age?
Have a look at our Facebook page for LQTS http://www.facebook.com/groups/193978400681765/#!/groups/3134910313/
It may help you; all are welcome
At what point should an ICD be considered for a LQTS patient? Only if they suffer from a cardiac event while being treated with beta blockers? Should it be considered if they still have a relatively high qt interval on their medication but have not suffered with a cardiac event? Are the considerations different for children than adults?
I was diagnosed with long qt syndrome last year, after being misdiagnosed with epilespy as a child. I had the genetic test done and my dr said I had long qt 1, 2 and 3. I see on my paper work from the lab that it mentions it but I have a hard beliving that it is possible. So is it possible to have three different variants for this condition?
We have a great group on Facebook called LQTS Kids and Families. http://www.facebook.com/groups/193978400681765/#!/groups/3134910313/
You may want to check it out
Dr. Ackerman, I have LQTS 1 and found out about my condition through my daughter when she was born just by accident. She had an innocent heart murmur and through a series of related testing, they determined she had Long QT syndrome. We both have had genetic testing to confirm. She is now 9 and on Nadolol and I am on Toprol XL. I also have propranolol in case of a breakthrough. I also have had bouts with high blood pressure on occasion. I’ve never had any of the symptoms of LQTS per say. However, I have had palpitations under extreme stress or emotion. My daughter has had no symptoms. Can you tell me how the doctor determines what type of betablocker an individual needs to be placed on? I’ve been told Nadolol is the beta blocker of choice for LQTS. I’ve been fine on Toprol XL for the last 3 plus years. I trust my doctor completely but am just curious.
My second and last question. Why is Nadolol considered the betablocker of choice for LQTS? Also, my daughter has been on Nadolol for 3 years and seems to be doing well with the exception of the weight gain. She started gaining weight the minute she was placed on this particular betablocker. Is it her eating habits or is it her reaction to the betablocker? She does like to eat but we’re concentrating on healthy eating and exercise. Any thoughts you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
My son was diagnosed when he was 10 years old with LQTS. He was started on Corgard and increased dose over the years. He has been on 120 mgm for years now and is 24 years old. Is the dose ever decreased? He has had a weight problem since he was 10 after starting the Corgard and has high blood pressure. Any suggestions? I just want the best for him. Thank-you.
Lillian
Would you allow a 11 year old with type one to continue playing basketball? Now that he is getting older and it is more competitive? He’s had no symptoms this far. Would you let him play football?
What is significant (if anything) about heart palpitations when you have Long QT syndrome. Especially during hormone fluctuations around peri/menopause time. Are replacement hormones ok to use?
We started a Facebook group for LQTS Kids and Families. http://www.facebook.com/groups/193978400681765/#!/groups/3134910313/
Everyone is welcome.
Why is it I read about ICD leads (wires) having to get replaced so much? Shouldn’t that technology be better than that, or are patients just really rough on them?
Is there such a thing as borderline long qt. My son was diagnosed with long qt 4 years ago and at one point was put on a beta blocker, but after a year on it, his doctor took him off. He has exercise stress tests annually, but his doctor said his numbers are in the grey area. Do you think he should be on a beta blocker or does this sound familiar to you?
Thank you.
How do beta blockers work in the treatment of LQTS exactly? Have they been known to shorten the QT interval in some patients?
My son gets out of breath easily, this was also before beta blockers, and now as well do you think this is from LQT? He has type 1
My son sweats when he sleeps… alot!! He was suspected to have LQTS at birth, but genetic test results were negative. His cQT is borderline. His electrophysiologist believes that he doesn’t have LQTS.
Have ADHD medications, such as methamphetamine/dextroamphetamine (the highly prescribed Adderal) been shown to cause any increase in the likelihood of developing prolonged QTi?
Can you be misdiagnosed with Long QT Syndrome?