Understanding Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome

What is WPW Syndrome?

Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome is a heart condition present at birth that involves an extra electrical pathway between the heart's upper and lower chambers. This additional pathway can cause periods of rapid heartbeat (tachycardia).

Key Features

• Extra Electrical Pathway: Called an accessory pathway or bypass tract
• Abnormal Heart Rhythm: Can cause episodes of rapid heartbeat
• Congenital Condition: Present from birth

Common Symptoms

• Rapid, pounding heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Fainting (in severe cases)

Diagnosis

Primary Diagnostic Tools

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG): Shows characteristic "delta wave"
2. Holter Monitor: Records heart rhythm over 24-48 hours
3. Exercise Stress Test: Evaluates heart during physical activity

Treatment Options

Immediate Management

• Vagal maneuvers
• Medication to stop episodes
• Emergency cardioversion if necessary

Long-term Solutions

1. Catheter Ablation

   • Most effective long-term treatment
   • Destroys abnormal pathway
   • Success rate >95%

2. Medications

   • Anti-arrhythmic drugs
   • Beta blockers
   • Calcium channel blockers

Living with WPW

• Regular medical follow-up
• Avoid trigger factors
• Maintain healthy lifestyle
• Emergency action plan

When to Seek Medical Care

• During episodes of rapid heartbeat
• If symptoms worsen
• Before starting new physical activities
• If new symptoms develop

Prevention

• Regular check-ups
• Medication compliance
• Lifestyle modifications
• Stress management

Prognosis

With proper treatment, most people with WPW syndrome lead normal, active lives. Catheter ablation offers a potential cure in many cases.