SADS Patients can Experience Fatal Shock



Watching horror movies can be more than just a thrill; for individuals with long QT syndrome, it can pose serious risks, including sudden arrhythmia that may lead to cardiac death. Long QT syndrome is a genetic condition that affects the heart's electrical system, making patients susceptible to life-threatening arrhythmias triggered by sudden sounds, mood swings, or fright.  

According to cardiology specialists, early diagnosis and preventive measures are crucial in reducing these risks. Dr. Yip Lingling, a cardiologist, explains that long QT syndrome is classified as one of the sudden arrhythmic death syndromes (SADS) due to genetic mutations, particularly affecting young people. During an episode, a patient's heart rhythm can exceed 250 beats per minute, disrupting normal heart function and potentially leading to ventricular fibrillation and cerebral hypoxia.
SADS患者受到驚嚇可致死亡

▲When fibrillation occurs in the heart, a defibrillator can immediately deliver an electric shock to restore the heartbeat to normal and prevent sudden cardiac death


If you often faint during exercise, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Long QT syndrome often presents suddenly, and its symptoms can be subtle. Dr. Lau, a cardiology specialist, emphasizes the importance of early intervention. He advises individuals with a family history of the condition to undergo genetic testing as soon as possible to determine if they carry the SADS gene, which can lead to more accurate treatment options. Additionally, if you frequently experience sudden dizziness during exercise, it may indicate a risk of developing SADS. In such cases, seeking medical advice promptly and receiving a thorough evaluation from a doctor is crucial to reduce the risk of complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

SADS患者受到驚嚇可致死亡

When the defibrillator's power is depleted, it can be replaced under local anesthesia.The procedure involves removing the device fixed under the clavicle and reconnecting it to the existing wires.


If a patient is diagnosed with long QT syndrome and is at high risk, a cardiac defibrillator may be implanted. This device monitors the heart's rhythm 24/7 and can deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heartbeat if needed, helping to prevent sudden cardiac death.

Dr. Lau mentions that some defibrillators have remote monitoring features, allowing data to be sent to the hospital through a home device or smartphone. This helps doctors keep track of the patient’s heart condition and can reduce hospital visits.

Dr. Yip points out that some patients are concerned about the surgery. However, the procedure is simple and done under local anesthesia. A small cut is made under the clavicle to place the device, and wires are connected to the heart without needing open-chest surgery. The operation is generally safe, with rare risks like bleeding or infection. If the defibrillator’s battery runs out, it can be replaced easily with local anesthesia, and the recovery time is shorter than the first surgery, so patients shouldn’t worry too much.

SADS患者受到驚嚇可致死亡

Dr. Lau, Alexson Tsz Ki (Left), Dr. Yip, LIng Ling (Right)