Long QT Syndrome: Warning Signs and Checklist

April 6, 2006 — -- The Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes Foundation has warning signs of Long QT Syndrome and other genetic heart disorders on its Web site www.sads.org.

Below are warning signs and a risk assessment checklist from the site.

Warning Signs:

Family history of unexpected, unexplained sudden death in a young person

Fainting (syncope) or seizure during exercise, excitement or startle

Consistent or unusual chest pain and/or shortness of breath during exercise

Risk Assessment Form

Parents, answer these questions (or have your child's doctor help complete them) every few years at these times: preschool, before/during middle school, before/during high school and before participating in organized sports.

Has your child fainted or passed out during exercise, emotion or startle?

Has your child fainted or passed out after exercise?

Has your child had extreme fatigue associated with exercise (different from other children)?

Has your child ever had unusual or extreme shortness of breath during exercise?

Has your child ever had discomfort, pain or pressure in his chest during exercise?

Has your child ever been diagnosed with an unexplained seizure disorder?

Family History Questions

Are there any family members who had an unexpected, unexplained death before age 50? (include SIDS, car accident, drowning, others)

Are there any family members who died of heart problems before age 50?

Are there any family members who have had unexplained fainting or seizures?

If you answer yes to any of the questions, your doctor should check your child's heart.