Have you been told that you have a long QT on your ECG? Don’t fret, especially if you do not have a family history of sudden death in young relatives. Read on to learn some natural strategies to support, and potentially reverse, Long QT syndrome.

Long QT syndrome on an electrocardiogram (ECG) can be caused by a variety of factors. 

Here are eleven possible causes:

1. Genetics: Some forms of long QT syndrome are inherited. These genetic mutations affect the heart’s electrical activity and prolong the QT interval. Simple genetic tests can reveal if this is you, but also, a family history of young people with sudden death or cardiac arrest would confirm that the issue is genetic. There is still PLENTY we can do to support you. 
2. Pharma: Certain drugs can prolong the QT interval. These include some antiarrhythmic drugs, antibiotics, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antihistamines.
3. Electrolyte Imbalances: Low levels of potassium, calcium, or magnesium in the blood can cause long QT syndrome. Make sure to check intracellular levels of these electrolytes and more. 
4. Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate): A slower than normal heart rate can prolong the QT interval. If you have a slow heart rate, you need to learn why. We can help. 
5. Heart Disease: Certain heart conditions, such as heart failure or a previous myocardial infarction, can lead to long QT syndrome. Myocarditis can lead to long QT syndrome as well. 
6. Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions like hypothyroidism can affect the heart’s electrical activity and prolong the QT interval.
7. Neurological Disorders: Some neurological disorders, such as intracranial hemorrhage, can indirectly affect the heart’s rhythm and lead to long QT syndrome. Movement disorders such as Parkinson’s, progressive supranuclear palsy, and multiple systems atrophy can also have a long QT. 
8. Hypothermia: Lowered body temperature can slow the heart’s electrical activity, prolonging the QT interval.
9. Omega-3 Deficiency: Studies show that omega-3 fats may shorten QT and protect against sudden cardiac death. 
10. Stress and Exercise: In rare cases, extreme stress or exercise can trigger long QT syndrome, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition. 
11. Environmental toxins: Mold mycotoxins, pesticides, phthalates, endotoxins and more can lead to long QT. This is often due to their effects on electrolytes and other necessary cellular constituents. 

It’s important to note that a prolonged QT interval can increase the risk of a life-threatening form of ventricular tachycardia known as torsades de pointes. Therefore, identifying and managing the underlying cause is crucial. 

If you are reading this, and have a chance to talk with us, speak to one of our cardiovascular specialists asap. 

We can help.