Cardiac Arrhythmias in Kids

Arrhythmias are common in kids. The heart's electrical system normally beats in a coordinated, rhythmic pattern. In children who have an arrhythmia, the heart may beat too slowly, too quickly or irregularly.

"Arrhythmias are related to a problem in the heart's electrical system. They may be caused by abnormalities in how or where the electrical impulse is generated, how it is spread through the heart, or even a short circuit in the electrical system," said Dr. Thomas Chin, co-director of Le Bonheur's Heart Institute.

There are many causes of arrhythmias in children, including:

• Genetics. Arrhythmias can run in the family. Examples would be Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome, or prolonged QT syndrome.
• An immature heart. Newborns experience arrhythmias when the electrical system of the heart is still immature. In these cases, children can outgrow their arrhythmia.
• Congenital heart defects. Arrhythmia can be associated with certain congenital heart defects like Ebstein's anomaly.
• Arrhythmias are frequently associated with cardiomyopathies (abnormalities in the muscle of the heart,) or myocarditis (infection of the heart).

In our Heart Institute, Pediatric Electrophysiologist Dr. Glenn Wetzel specializes in pediatric arrhythmias. Treatment options can include:

• Medication.
• Pacemakers and defibrillators to control the heartbeat.
• Ablation procedures to eliminate the area of the heart causing which is causing the arrhythmia.

If you have a concern about your child's heart health or any family history issues, discuss those with your pediatrician.