Q: Which specialist should I consult to rule out Brugada syndrome (BrS)?
A: You should consult a cardiologist (heart specialist) to rule out Brugada syndrome.
Q: Can I live a normal life with Brugada syndrome?
A: Regular ECG monitoring, avoiding drugs with sodium blocking effects and using ICD will help a person lead a normal life to a large extent.
Q: What are risks from having an ICD implanted?
A: Minor shocks have been reported when ventricular rate rises during physical activity or stress. There may also be risks related to surgery such as infection, damage to heart, nerve or blood vessel at the area where ICD is placed.
Q: Is sudden infant death syndrome[ SIDS] related to Brugada syndrome?
A: Several studies have concluded there may be a genetic link among SIDS and BrS resulting from mutations in cardiac ion channel related genes.
Q: What other conditions can cause irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias?
A: Irregular heart rhythms can also occur occasionally in healthy hearts. They can also be caused by certain substances such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, cocaine, inhaled aerosols and medications such as diet pills and cough and cold medicines. Emotional states such as shock, fright or stress can also cause irregular heart rhythms.
Q: Is there correlation between sleep patterns and Brugada syndrome?
A: About 15% to 20% of cardiac-related deaths occur at night. However, more studies are required to determine the correlation.
