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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffMany people who have Brugada syndrome are undiagnosed because the condition often doesn't cause any noticeable symptoms.
The most important sign or symptom of Brugada syndrome is an abnormal pattern on an electrocardiogram (ECG) called a Brugada sign. A Brugada sign is a pattern of heartbeats that's found on a test of your heart rhythm (electrocardiogram, or ECG). You can't feel a Brugada sign — it's only detected on an ECG.
It's possible to have a Brugada sign without having Brugada syndrome. However, signs and symptoms that could mean you have Brugada syndrome include:
- Fainting (syncope)
- Irregular heartbeats or palpitations
- Stopped heartbeat (sudden cardiac arrest)
Brugada syndrome signs and symptoms are similar to some other heart rhythm problems, so it's essential that you see your doctor to find out if Brugada syndrome or another heart rhythm problem is causing your symptoms.
When to see a doctor
If you have heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), make an appointment to see your doctor. Your problem could be caused by a heart rhythm problem, but tests can determine if your heart problem is Brugada syndrome. If you faint and you suspect it may be because of a heart condition, seek emergency medical attention.
If your parent, sibling or child has been diagnosed with Brugada syndrome, you may want to make an appointment with your doctor. He or she can discuss whether you should have genetic testing to see if you're at risk of Brugada syndrome.
- Wylie JV, et al. Brugada syndrome and sudden cardiac arrest. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 25, 2011.
- Brugada syndrome. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/print/sec07/ch075/ch075l.html. Accessed Feb. 16, 2011.
- What is Brugada syndrome? Genetics Home Reference. http://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/brugada-syndrome. Accessed Feb. 16, 2011.
- Probst V, et al. Long-term prognosis of patients diagnosed with Brugada syndrome: Results from the FINGER Brugada syndrome registry. Circulation. 2010;121:635.
- Macedo PG, et al. Sleep-disordered breathing in patients with Brugada syndrome. American Journal of Cardiology. 2011;107:709.
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