What does prolonged QT on ECG mean?

In long QT syndrome, your heart’s electrical system takes longer than normal to recharge between beats. This delay, which often can be seen on an electrocardiogram (ECG), is called a prolonged QT interval.

What happens when QT interval is prolonged?

LQTS occurs as the result of a defect in the ion channels, causing a delay in the time it takes for the electrical system to recharge after each heartbeat. When the Q-T interval is longer than normal, it increases the risk for torsade de pointes, a life-threatening form of ventricular tachycardia.

How long is too long for a QT interval?

The normal QT interval varies depending on age and gender, but it’s usually 0.36 to 0.44 second (see QT interval ranges). Anything greater than or equal to 0.50 second is considered dangerous for any age or gender; notify the healthcare provider immediately.

Which medications prolong QT interval?

Some medications that prolong the QT interval include: Alfuzosin (Uroxatral®) Amoxapine. Apomorphine (Apokyn®) Arformoterol (Brovana®) Bitter orange. Chloroquine (Aralen®) Certain anesthetics.

What does a prolonged QT interval mean?

A prolonged QT interval refers to an abnormality seen on an electrocardiogram. This abnormality reflects a disturbance in how your heart’s bottom chambers (ventricles) conduct electricity.

How long is too long for a QTc interval?

The normal QT interval varies depending on age and gender, but it’s usually 0.36 to 0.44 second (see QT interval ranges). Anything greater than or equal to 0.50 second is considered dangerous for any age or gender; notify the healthcare provider immediately.

What causes prolonged QTc interval?

There are two common causes of QT interval prolongation: (1) genetic mutations and (2) particular medications. Genetic mutations. Several genetic mutations have been associated with some degree of QT interval lengthening. The most severe mutation results in a syndrome called Long-QT-Syndrome ( LQTS ).

What is the significance of a prolonged QT interval?

What is the danger of prolonged QT?

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a disease that can cause a dangerous rapid heart rate and irregular rhythm involving the bottom pumping chambers of the heart (ventricles). The heart has both muscular and electrical components. Electricity flowing through the heart muscle triggers the muscle to squeeze (contract) or beat.

Which drugs prolong QT interval?

Drugs that prolong the QT interval

Does caffeine prolong QT interval?

Consuming caffeinated energy drinks is associated with QTc interval prolongation, which is a risk factor for torsades de pointes, according to a small study in the Journal of the American Heart Association.