Long QT Syndrome Associated Syncope - Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a condition where a patient's EKG shows abnormal heart rhythms and susceptibility to rapid and chaotic heartbeats. This can cause fainting or seizures. - Fainting, also known as syncope, is the temporary loss of consciousness caused by low blood flow to the brain. It can be triggered in LQTS patients by startling events or changes in mood like excitement or fear. - Before losing consciousness, an LQTS patient may experience blurred vision, lightheadedness, or weakness. Startling sounds or mood changes are common triggers for fainting in people with LQTS.

1. Long QT Syndrome Associated Syncope
John Fosbinder

2. Introduction
A fellow of the American Board of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine, Dr. John J.
Fosbinder is an adjunct assistant professor of emergency medicine at A.T. Still University
School of Osteopathic Medicine. Among other topics, Dr. John "Joe" Fosbinder has held
lectures on pulmonary embolism, fatal pediatric overdoses, and prolonged QT syndrome.

3. A patient may be diagnosed with long QT syndrome (LQTS) if their EKG displays
abnormal heart rhythms that show that they are susceptible to rapid and chaotic
heartbeats. Until an irregular heartbeat occurs, many patients are unaware of the
condition. An episode of such irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) can cause seizures or
fainting.

4. Fainting, medically referred to as syncope, is the temporary loss of muscle control
and consciousness due to low blood flow to the brain. Startling events, such as when
a nearby phone or alarm rings unexpectedly, can cause an LQTS patient to lose
consciousness. Also, mood changes such as excitement, fear, or anger can trigger
fainting in LQTS patients. In some patients, the loss of consciousness may be
preceded by a short period of blurred vision, lightheadedness, or weakness.