Overview

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a heart rhythm problem that causes a very fast heart rate. It happens because you have an extra electrical pathway in your heart. WPW is a congenital heart problem. This means you were born with it.
You may have a fast heart rate or feel a fluttering in your chest (palpitations). You may also feel chest pain, feel lightheaded or dizzy, or faint. When you have these symptoms, it's called an episode. You may not have symptoms.
Your doctor may prescribe medicines to help slow down your heartbeat. Your doctor may also suggest you try vagal maneuvers when having an episode of WPW. These are things that might help slow your heart rate. Your doctor can show you how to do vagal maneuvers.
In some cases, a procedure called catheter ablation is done to destroy the extra electrical pathway.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
- If your doctor showed you how to do vagal maneuvers, try them when you have an episode. These maneuvers include bearing down or putting an ice-cold, wet towel on your face.
- Monitor your condition by keeping a diary of your WPW episodes. Bring this to your doctor appointments.
- First, you'll need to count your heart rate (take your pulse).
- After you check your heart rate, write down:
- How fast or slow your heart was beating.
- If your heart rhythm was regular or irregular.
- What symptoms you had.
- The time of day your symptoms occurred.
- How long your symptoms lasted.
- What you were doing when your symptoms started.
- What may have helped your symptoms go away.
- If they trigger episodes, limit or avoid alcohol or drinks with caffeine.
- Do not use over-the-counter decongestants. They often contain ingredients that make your heart beat faster (stimulants).
- If you smoke, vape, or use other tobacco or nicotine products, try to quit. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about quit programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
- Do not use drugs such as cocaine, ecstasy, or methamphetamine, which can speed up your heart's rhythm.
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
- You are short of breath.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have a fast heartbeat.
- You are dizzy or lightheaded, or you feel like you may faint.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You do not get better as expected.
Where can you learn more?
Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter B246 in the search box to learn more about "Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome: Care Instructions".
Current as of: July 31, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.