Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome (WPW)

Overview

WPW is found on an ECG, sometimes before any symptoms.

A rare danger is a very fast rhythm with AFib.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Racing heartbeat episodes
• Racing heart that starts and stops suddenly

Less common

• Dizziness
• Fainting

Look up a symptom: Dizziness · Racing or pounding heartbeat

When to get medical care

Causes

Born with it.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Young people: Often found in children and young adults
• Family members: Some cases run in families

Possible complications

• Atrial fibrillation (AFib): Can be dangerous with WPW
• Fainting (syncope): From a very fast heartbeat

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• ECG:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Avoid stimulants
• Learn vagal moves like bearing down

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a cardiologist or electrophysiologist (heart rhythm doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Make your home safe from falls: good lighting, no loose rugs, grab bars.
• Ask your doctor whether it's safe to drive.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• American Heart Association: Plain-language heart information and a support network for patients.
• Parkinson's Foundation: Helpline 1-800-473-4636 and exercise and support programs.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Many people keep working in the early stages, with changes to their tasks.
• Plan ahead for work, money, and legal choices while you can.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Young people: Often found in teens.
• Children and young adults: Often found then.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Set up a pill organizer and a simple daily routine.
• Make the home safe from falls.
• Go to visits with them and write down what the doctor says.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Ablation cures most.

Ablation cures most cases.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Should I have an ablation?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome (WPW)