What Causes Long QT Syndrome?
Faulty genes cause inherited long QT syndrome (LQTS). These genes control the production of certain types of ion channels in your heart. The genes may cause the body to make too few ion channels or ion channels that don’t work properly, or both. If you have inherited LQTS, you received the faulty gene(s) from one or both of your parents. Inherited LQTS is a lifelong condition. There are seven known types of inherited LQTS (types 1 though 7). The most common types of inherited LQTS are types 1, 2, and 3. Some types of LQTS stem from either faulty or lacking potassium ion or sodium ion channels. If you have LQTS 1 or LQTS 2, the flow of potassium ions through the ion channels in your heart cells isn’t normal. This may cause problems when you exercise or when you’re surprised or experience emotional stress. During these situations, you may develop a rapid and uncontrollable heart rhythm that prevents your heart from pumping blood. This will result in death if it’s not quickly brought unde
