In Wolff Parkinson White (WPW) syndrome, an extra electrical pathway exists between the heart's atrium and ventricles. It can cause a rapid heartbeat. Symptoms include heart palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath and fatigue. If the disease is severe, patients may faint. A small percentage of WPW syndrome patients occasionally experience a type of chaotic heartbeat called atrial fibrillation. Treatment options include vagal maneuvers, anti-arrhythmic medication or medication that can slow down the heart rate, electrically shocking the heart, or radiofrequency catheter ablation.
How is Wolff Parkinson White (WPW) syndrome treated in practice?