I was recently diagnosed with a Long Q Rhythm. I'm wondering if there is anyone else out there with this problem.
My Dr. recommends Beta Blocker and no more racing. He also commented that I've had this condition all my life so I'll probably be ok.
I would like to PM with anyone out there who is swimming with a similar situation. I am feeling very conflicted and would like to talk to someone in the same boat.
I read the paragraph about the sisters who swam in Nationals with a Long Q diagnosis, in fact that article motivated me to go to the electrophysicist (sp) and get this checked out by a specialist.
Hi Bobinator--
First off, I'm so sorry you are having to go through this. This is one of the creepiest experiences I've ever had. To go from extremely active and healthy to being told you may have a potentially fatal heart condition really, really stinks.
I had an EKG last Spring in preparation for a routine OB surgical procedure and the OB sent me to the cardiologist because of my QT interval. I went from the cardiologist (who had decided I was ok based on a great stress-test result) to the electrophysiologist (just to be safe). The electrophysiologist didn't like the looks of my resting QT interval and had me do genetic testing. I think he was sure I had type 3 LQTS (where I'd end up needing a defibrillator). He never told me I had to stop exercising outright but that may be because I was so adamant that I've made it 45 years with no problems. I didn't compete this summer and took a small dose of Beta Blockers while trying to be careful training.
This all started in March and I finally got my genetic testing results back in the middle of July (took 5 weeks after they got my blood sample). I do not have any of the three genetic markers for LQTS. I have an abnormality but it's not known to have any specific effects. So, I've been cleared to resume my normal life (though I need to avoid any drugs that lengthen QT intervals and to make sure I keep my electrolyte levels normal).
Does your doctor recommend genetic testing? It's not cheap--even with insurance it's pricey. However, for peace of mind and the ability to inform your relatives of any potential issues, I think it's worth doing.
I probably know exactly how you are feeling right now. Irritated, a little freaked out and confused at how you could possibly have something so serious and have lived so actively with no problems thus far. Please PM me if you want to chat some more.
Hi Bobinator--
First off, I'm so sorry you are having to go through this. This is one of the creepiest experiences I've ever had. To go from extremely active and healthy to being told you may have a potentially fatal heart condition really, really stinks.
I had an EKG last Spring in preparation for a routine OB surgical procedure and the OB sent me to the cardiologist because of my QT interval. I went from the cardiologist (who had decided I was ok based on a great stress-test result) to the electrophysiologist (just to be safe). The electrophysiologist didn't like the looks of my resting QT interval and had me do genetic testing. I think he was sure I had type 3 LQTS (where I'd end up needing a defibrillator). He never told me I had to stop exercising outright but that may be because I was so adamant that I've made it 45 years with no problems. I didn't compete this summer and took a small dose of Beta Blockers while trying to be careful training.
This all started in March and I finally got my genetic testing results back in the middle of July (took 5 weeks after they got my blood sample). I do not have any of the three genetic markers for LQTS. I have an abnormality but it's not known to have any specific effects. So, I've been cleared to resume my normal life (though I need to avoid any drugs that lengthen QT intervals and to make sure I keep my electrolyte levels normal).
Does your doctor recommend genetic testing? It's not cheap--even with insurance it's pricey. However, for peace of mind and the ability to inform your relatives of any potential issues, I think it's worth doing.
I probably know exactly how you are feeling right now. Irritated, a little freaked out and confused at how you could possibly have something so serious and have lived so actively with no problems thus far. Please PM me if you want to chat some more.
