Can long QT cause dizziness, confusion, and weakness?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Long QT syndrome, as such, will not cause weakness or shortness of breath and day-to-day dizziness. It causes episodic symptoms only. Exercise or stress causes the release of adrenaline and other hormones, which can precipitate arrhythmias. It causes ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, which causes blood pressure to fall, which in turn can cause dizziness, syncope, or cardiac arrest. So, when there are arrhythmias, it leads to low BP and symptoms.

Decreased blood supply to the brain may cause loss of consciousness and confusion. However, when it is associated with other problems, like hypokalemic periodic paralysis, then it can cause episodic weakness only. So, the symptoms will be episodic and will not occur on a day-to-day basis. If there is associated cardiac dysfunction like low ejection fraction, which is not expected in isolated long QT syndrome, it can cause these symptoms.

I hope this helps. Get back if you have any doubts.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

So your basic concern is regarding giving samples. But, the long QT will not limit you from giving samples for the breathalyzer. Blowing air for five seconds is not contraindicated in long QT syndrome. Physical exercises like running or heavy physical activities, or sudden severe stress like listening to some bad news or sudden intense panic sufficient to cause the release of adrenergic rush that may precipitate arrhythmias. As I mentioned, the symptoms this weekend of shortness of breath and confusion are unlikely due to long QT syndrome. It can cause confusion and syncope only when there is an episode of arrhythmia, which will be notorious and much more severe in intensity, usually requiring hospitalization.

Also, the recurrent fainting spells you mentioned are also less likely due to recurrent arrhythmias. If someone is having these, then the course is downhill, needing multiple interventions. So they may be due to panic attacks or anxiety, although if it happens again, they or even should be evaluated with Holter or ECG. So, I can provide a note on this platform mentioning the precautions and things to avoid, which I mentioned above, but those symptoms on the weekend could not be explained with a long QT. Also, let me know how much the QT and ejection fraction in echo are for a better description if you need it.

I hope this helps.

Please revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.