Signs/Symptoms

Signs and Symptoms

The signs/symptoms of many diseases are slow, persistent cues that help to tell caregivers that there is something wrong and then help a provider diagnose the patient. But in pediatric Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) the signs that lead to initial diagnosis tend to come on as rapid cardiac symptoms such as irregular heart beats, fainting, loss of consciousness, and seizures (Mayo Clinic 2012). If these symptoms of irregular heart rhythms from LQTS are not immediately addressed with an AED (automatic external defibrillator) then sudden cardiac death can occur. These symptoms usually present between birth and adolescence as the child exercises and experiences cardiac irregularity.

The above symptoms are quite concerning to both the patient as well as the family/caregivers. After initial cardiac work up and stabilization is complete, it is often helpful for all family members to talk through and process their experiences in seeing their child experience these symptoms. Mental health professionals can be helpful in discussing age appropriate explanations for the pediatric patient/siblings.

An AED saves lives. They can be found in many public places such as schools, businesses, community centers, and pools. AED’s are very easy to use as they have step-by-step instructions that tell the user exactly what to do. Here’s a diagram that demonstrates using an AED.

http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/aed/howtouse

Here is a helpful video that demonstrates CPR and using an AED on a child. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xP_uyuUnzQg

These skills can help save a child’s life…so watch the video!

Here’s a great video from a nurse who demonstrates how to help a person who is fainting safely get to the ground:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIiuqzvX4vs

Here’s a video from a nurse who demonstrates how to help a person who is having a seizure. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qWPFCFmRlI  FYI: this video is geared more towards assisting a person with epilepsy (a seizure disorder), whereas seizures with LQTS are a symptom of cardiac issues. Here's a diagram summarizing basic ways to help keep a person who is having a seizure safe.

http://www.efepa.org/living-with-epilepsy/

That's all folks! Next week we'll discuss immediate action that occurs when a patient comes into the hospital for a cardiac work up as well as long term treatment for a patient with pediatric Long QT Syndrome.

~Until the next beat~
Sarah

Sources:

Mayo Clinic Staff. (2012, April 20). Long QT syndrome. Retrieved February 8, 2015, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/long-qt-syndrome/basics/symptoms/con-20025388