How to Treat Wolff-Parkinson White Syndrome

Wolff-Parkinson White syndrome is a heart problem which can cause abnormal heart rhythms. The electrical impulses of the heart are disrupted. The disruption is caused by an extra node or conducting pathway between the hearts chambers. Some people with Wolff-Parkinson White syndrome don't have symptoms. For those who are symptomatic, treatment is available.

Instructions

• 1

  Be aware of activities which may lead to abnormal heart rates. Some people with Wolff-Parkinson White syndrome experience symptoms during certain types of exercise or activities. Keep a journal and record when you have symptoms and what you were doing.

• 2

  Discuss using Valsalva maneuvers with your doctor. Wolff-Parkinson White syndrome may cause extremely rapid heart rates. Valsalva maneuvers cause changes in blood pressure which can slow the heart rate down. To perform a Valsalva maneuver, bear down as if you were having a bowel movement or cough hard.

• 3

  Take medication. Learn your options and take as prescribed. Some medications are used when your heart rate won't return to normal. These medications are given intravenously at a hospital. Other medications are taken daily and used to prevent an abnormal heart rate from developing.

• 4

  Undergo a cardioversion. If medication is not slowing down your fast heart rate a cardioversion may be needed. Your heart should be shocked with a defibrillator to help restore your rhythm to normal. You should be closely monitored and usually sedated to avoid feeling discomfort.

• 5

  Have radiofrequency catheter ablation. This procedure helps destroy the extra conducting pathway. A catheter will be inserted into your groin and threaded up to your heart. The catheter has electrodes and the tips have a heated current. The current cauterizes a small amount of heart tissue and destroys the pathway.

• 6

  Get cyoablation surgery. This procedure is similar to radiofrequency ablation. However it freezes a small amount of heart tissue, which destroys the conducting pathway and stops the abnormally fast heart rhythm from occurring.