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Hereditary Heart Problems

Heredity can play a role in the development of heart problems. The risk increases even more if your parents or siblings are the ones with the heart disorders. If you have a family history of heart problems, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.

  1. Congenital Heart Disease

    • Congenital heart disease is characterized by a problem with the structure of the heart that is present at birth. It is caused by many different genetic conditions and syndromes, and is the most common type of major birth defect. Congenital heart disease can disrupt the flow of blood, causing it to be blocked, go to the wrong location or flow in the wrong direction, and can also slow down the flow of blood.

    Familial Hypercholesterolemia

    • Familial hypercholesterolemia is a hereditary heart problem that causes abnormally high levels of LDL cholesterol. This condition can begin at birth, but can also develop over time. Individuals who suffer from familial hypercholesterolemia have an increased risk of having a heart attack and developing coronary artery disease at a young age. This condition is caused by the LDLR (or low density lipoprotein receptor) gene. Familial hypercholesterolemia happens when the LDLR gene mutates. People with two copies of the mutated LDLR gene are at a much higher risk of developing coronary artery disease.

    Brugada Syndrome

    • Brugada Syndrome is a hereditary heart condition that affects the rhythm of the heart. This syndrome causes the ventricles of the heart to beat too fast. Brugada Syndrome can lead to fainting and even to sudden death. This syndrome can affect people of all ages, but the highest risk group are people in their 30s. The SCN5A gene is the gene responsible for the development of Brugada Syndrome.

    Long QT

    • Long QT is a syndrome that affects the heart's rhythm by creating electrical disturbances. These electrical disturbances can be triggered by being startled, stressful situations, exercise, crying and anger. This syndrome can produce symptoms such as fainting or shortness of breath, and lead to sudden death. Long QT also plays a role in some cases of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS. There are six genes that are related to Long QT.

    Prevention

    • Just because your genes put you at a higher risk of heart problems doesn't mean that you can't try to prevent them. Some hereditary heart problems can't be prevented, but others can by practicing a heart-healthy life style. High blood pressure can be hereditary, but you can decrease your chances of developing it by eating a healthful diet, exercising, not smoking and limiting your alcohol consumption. Obesity can also be hereditary, but can be combated by healthy food choices and getting 30 to 60 minutes of cardio exercise per day.

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