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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffMany people who have Brugada syndrome are undiagnosed because the condition often hasn't caused any noticeable signs or symptoms.
The most important sign or symptom of Brugada syndrome is an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia) called a Brugada sign. A Brugada sign is a pattern of heartbeats that's found on a test of your heart rhythm (electrocardiogram, or ECG). You can't feel a Brugada sign — it's only detected on an ECG.
It's possible to have a Brugada sign without having Brugada syndrome. However, signs and symptoms that could mean you have Brugada syndrome include:
- Fainting (syncope)
- Irregular heartbeats or palpitations
- Stopped heartbeat (sudden cardiac arrest)
Brugada syndrome signs and symptoms are similar to some other heart rhythm problems, so it's essential that you see your doctor to find out if Brugada syndrome or another heart rhythm problem is causing your symptoms.
When to see a doctor
If you have heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), make an appointment to see your doctor. Your problem could be caused by a heart rhythm problem, but tests will be necessary to see if your heart problem is Brugada syndrome. If you faint and you suspect it may be because of a heart condition, seek emergency medical attention.
If your parent, sibling or child has been diagnosed with Brugada syndrome, you may also want to make an appointment with your doctor. He or she can discuss whether you should undergo genetic testing to see if you're at risk of Brugada syndrome.
- Wylie JV, et al. Brugada syndrome and sudden cardiac arrest. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed March 24, 2008.
- Benito B, et al. Brugada syndrome. Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases. 2008;51:1.
- Benito B, et al. Gender differences in clinical manifestations of Brugada syndrome. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2008;52:1567.
- Antzelevitch C, et al. Brugada syndrome: Recent advances and controversies. Current Cardiology Reports. 2008;10:376.
- The Brugada syndrome. Ramon Brugada Senior Foundation. http://www.brugada.org/about/about.html. Accessed April 14, 2009.
