Brugada Syndrome

Signs and symptoms of Brugada syndrome

Brugada syndrome usually has a genetic cause but can also be acquired. It creates an irregular heartbeat in the lower chambers of your heart, preventing blood from properly circulating throughout your body.

Within the field of cardiology, there are multiple illnesses that can trigger an arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). While different heart problems may share similar symptoms, sometimes Brugada syndrome has no symptoms. 

That is why your doctor emphasizes getting regular checkups, especially if there’s a family history of heart disease.

When Brugada syndrome symptoms appear, they usually include: 

• Fainting
• Seizures
• Dizziness
• Gasping and labored breathing, especially during sleep or at night
• Irregular, fast and chaotic heartbeat

When to seek care

Heart condition symptoms are unmistakable. If you experience any of them, call 911 and get to the emergency room. At UCI Health, our Heart Failure Care services are always available and you can contact us directly. You may benefit from our Arrhythmia Care program too.

Brugada syndrome diagnosis at UCI Health

One of the key tools we use to diagnose Brugada syndrome is an ECG, an electrocardiogram. Our electrophysiologists are specially trained to understand the nuances of your heart’s electrical system. 

Because it plays a role in Brugada syndrome, your doctor may order genetic testing to look for a mutation in the SCN5A gene. This will help us determine whether you have a genetic or acquired form of this condition.

Are you at risk for Brugada syndrome?

There are certain groups of people more likely to get this condition than others:

• If you’re of Asian descent, particularly Japanese and Southeast Asian
• If you’re male
• If you have a mutation in your SCN5A gene
• Those of you who acquire the illness may get it from:
  • arrhythmia medications
  • high blood pressure
  • mental illness
  • cocaine use
  • high and low potassium levels
  • high blood calcium levels

Why choose UCI Health for Brugada syndrome

Our electrophysiology procedure rooms are world class

We’ve equipped them with the latest technology for implanting devices, extracting leads, studying cardiac electrophysiology and performing ablative procedures. All of these procedures come into play while treating Brugada syndrome. 

Our Heart Failure Program is the first such program in Southern California to earn the Gold Seal of Approval™

This certification is from The Joint Commission, the nation’s predominant,standards-setting and accrediting body in healthcare.

Our program also received the American Heart Association's Gold Plus Award for meeting the highest standard of care for heart failure patients. We receive awards like these because of our doctors’ fellowship training, high volume of clinical experience and compassionate approach.

Our Heart Health Coaching is a superb program that can speed your recovery

The choices you make every day count. Our coaching services are designed to empower you to better manage a complex condition and learn skills to protect your health. They can help you make lifestyle changes and get you access to community resources that improve your quality of life.