HEART DISEASE
Brugada Syndrome
The Brugada Syndrome (BS) is a genetic heart disease in which the electrical activity of the heart is disturbed: this can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. The gene mutation SCN5A has a genetic cause, but not all Brugada genes have been discovered yet.
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Possible signs and symptoms of BS are:
Shortness of breath, problems by exercise and reduced endurance
Heart palpitations
Cardiac arrhythmia: severe arrhythmia can sometimes cause dizziness, fainting and even sudden cardiac death
In the course of life
Most symptoms occur at rest (while sleeping), usually in adulthood (over 30 years) and more often by men than women. The symptoms vary from gene carrier to gene carrier: some may experience heart problems (with fever or when taking certain medications) while others have no symptoms at all. In case of symptoms, it is important to discuss it with your GP or cardiologist so that a cardiovascular examination can be carried out.
ACCORDING TO SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Possible treatments
ICD / Pacemaker
If there is a risk of dangerous cardiac arrhythmia, an ICD can be implemented.
Lifestyle
Patients with Brugada Syndrome have to be careful with the use of alcohol.
Paracetamol
By fever, it is recommended to take paracetamol and to do an ECG examination.
Cardiovascular examination
Echo
An ultrasound of the heart provides a clear image and sound of the function and shape of the heart muscle and valves.
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MRI Scan
The MRI examination, which generates radio wave (magnetic) signals, provides a clear picture of the heart (chambers).
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ECG
In an electrocardiogram, the electrical signals of the heartbeats are properly recorded and can be analyzed.
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• A Holter monitor test, exercise/cycle test and Ajmaline test (Flecainide/provocation test) may also be part of cardiovascular examination.
Discuss it with your GP or cardiologist
If you’re experiencing some signs and symptoms, or if other family members have been found to have a predisposition for the genetic heart disease BS, please discuss it with your GP/cardiologist so that additional cardiovascular examination can be assessed.
