The condition has been diagnosed in otherwise perfectly healthy young people
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a rare congenital heart condition that can be diagnosed in otherwise perfectly healthy young individuals. This condition, present from birth, may not manifest any symptoms until later in life or may never show symptoms at all.
It is characterised by an extra electrical connection in the heart. This extra pathway causes a “short circuit” which affects the heart’s rhythm. While it can lead to tachycardia, this is not always the case; having an extra pathway without tachycardia is referred to as Wolff-Parkinson-White pattern rather than syndrome.
The British Heart Foundation highlights that while the syndrome is relatively rare, affecting up to three out of 1,000 people, it is diagnosed in “many healthy young adults”. The condition varies in its symptoms, with some experiencing effects only a few times a year for mere seconds, while others may suffer for hours everyday.
Symptoms can include palpitations, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, anxiety, sweating, and chest discomfort or pain. Certain triggers such as exercise, stress, caffeine, or alcohol consumption can provoke these symptoms.
The foundation advises anyone experiencing a rapid or noticeable heartbeat to consult their GP. They also advised people diagnosed with WPW syndrome to dial 999 if they experience an episode and their usual medications or methods aren’t helping.
The treatment for WPW syndrome is symptomatic, as there is currently no cure for the condition itself. For some, having a WPW pattern may not necessitate any intervention, while others might require surgery to physically remove the additional electrical pathway in their heart.
If WPW syndrome is diagnosed early in life, it could improve or even resolve on its own over time, though medical advice should always be heeded. Despite the potential concerns associated with WPW syndrome, the British Heart Foundation emphasises that it “usually isn’t serious”.
Nonetheless, it can sometimes occur alongside another heart condition known as Atrial Fibrillation. This can significantly increase the risk of a dangerously rapid heartbeat if left untreated.
The BHF notes: “But this is rare. People in high risk jobs, like a pilot or a professional athlete, and people at risk of a life-threatening rhythm may be offered treatment to lower their risk.”
