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Arrhythmias

Updated 7/10/26
Authors: Brian Frost, Matthew Marhefka, Madison Notarianni

What are arrhythmias?

Arrhythmias refer to a broad category of abnormalities in the way the heart’s electrical system works. These differences in how the heart beats can place individuals at higher risk of sudden cardiac arrest, which is when the heart is unable to contract.1,2

What are congenital arrhythmias?

Congenital arrhythmias are conditions that affect the heart’s electrical system and are present at birth, although they may not be recognized until they cause symptoms or, in more serious cases, a sudden cardiac arrest.1,2

What causes congenital arrhythmias?

Congenital arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that a person is born with, usually due to a problem with the heart’s electrical system or an inherited gene mutation that affects how the heart beats. Important risk factors for developing these conditions include: a family history of arrhythmias or sudden unexplained death, having a congenital heart defect, and/or having mutations in the channels that control the movement of ions such as sodium and potassium, which help regulate the heart’s electrical activity.1,2 Following Simon Sudman’s sudden and unexpected death in infancy, his mother was diagnosed with long QT syndrome, highlighting the importance of recognizing inherited arrhythmias with family screenings.3

What are the most common types of congenital arrhythmias?

Common congenital arrhythmias include conditions such as long QT syndrome, short QT syndrome, Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome, Brugada syndrome, Romano-Ward syndrome, and rhythm problems linked to congenital heart defects.1,2 

What symptoms can congenital arrhythmias cause?

While many people have no symptoms, others may experience a racing heartbeat, skipped beats, a fluttering sensation in the chest, dizziness, fainting, difficulty breathing, chest pain, or unusual tiredness. In more serious cases, congenital arrhythmias can lead to cardiac arrest (where the heart suddenly stops beating) during exercise or intense exertion, which is why it is very important for patients and their families to be educated on these conditions. Triggers that can sometimes unmask an underlying arrhythmia include intense exercise, emotional stress, and dehydration.1,2

How are congenital arrhythmias diagnosed?

Patients concerned about having an arrhythmia should consult their physician for an evaluation, which will likely include getting an electrocardiogram (ECG) to study the flow of electricity in the heart.2

How are congenital arrhythmias treated?

There are a variety of treatments and management protocols for patients with congenital arrhythmias that depend on the type of arrhythmia, the severity of the symptoms, and the age of the patient. These include surgery, medications, implantation of devices that regulate the heart, and consistent doctor appointments to monitor the patient’s condition. If you or a loved one has a congenital arrhythmia, it is important to speak to a doctor to develop a treatment plan that works best for you.1,2

How to make a difference?

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency. It can strike suddenly, without warning, and have lasting impacts.2,3 It is important to have a plan in place for how to respond if you witness a sudden cardiac arrest. The American Heart Association’s Chain of Survival outlines the critical steps that give someone the best chance of surviving cardiac arrest.4 Learn more about the Chain of Survival here: https://cpr.heart.org/en/resources/cpr-facts-and-stats/chain-of-survival. 

If someone experiences cardiac arrest, they may suddenly collapse, lose consciousness, stop breathing normally, and have no pulse. In such a case, begin CPR, ask someone to call 911, and retrieve an AED if one is nearby. Use the AED as soon as possible because it can restore a normal heart rhythm in certain life-threatening cardiac arrests.2,5 Secondly, understand your risk by discussing your family history of heart disease or unexpected deaths before age 50 with your doctor.1,2 

A congenital arrhythmia can leave people at risk of unexpected death, but awareness, family screening, and early recognition can save lives.1,2 Simon’s Heart was founded to raise awareness of these conditions and help prevent sudden cardiac death in children and young adults through education, screening, and advocacy.3

References:

  1. American Heart Association. Types of arrhythmia in children. Accessed June 5, 2026. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia/about-arrhythmia/types-of-arrhythmia-in-children 
  2. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Arrhythmias. Accessed June 5, 2026. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/arrhythmias 
  3. Simon’s Heart. About Simon’s Heart. Accessed June 5, 2026. https://simonsheart.org/about/
  4. American Heart Association. Chain of Survival. Updated 2025. Accessed July 11, 2026. https://cpr.heart.org/en/resources/cpr-facts-and-stats/chain-of-survival
  5. UPBEAT: The Beat Goes On. Sudden cardiac arrest. Accessed June 5, 2026. https://upbeat.org/heart-rhythm-disorders/sudden-cardiac-arrest
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Jake Berman

“I attended a heart screening at Colonial Middle School when I was ten. I was in the marching band and liked to hike and rock climb. I was diagnosed with Wolff Parkinson White Syndrome. After my procedure, I kept doing the same things.”

Whitney Jones

Whitney’s commitment to heart health advocacy began at 10 years old when she and her mother, Rayna, were diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome during a Simon’s Heart screening at Downingtown West High School. Despite the diagnosis, Whitney pursued her passion for cheerleading and continued to thrive in the sport through her college years at St. Joseph’s University. After graduating, Whitney joined Stryker Instruments as the Senior Specialist for Off-Site Meeting and Events, where she skillfully orchestrates events that promote health and medical innovation. Further extending her impact, Whitney is an active member of the Simon’s Heart Young Professionals Committee, while her mother Rayna contributes her expertise on the Board of Directors.

Katie Asper

“I attended a heart screening at Upper Dublin High School when I was ten. I played soccer. I was diagnosed with Wolff Parkinson White Syndrome and had an ablation to fix the problem. I attend Temple University.”

Matthew Green

“I attended a heart screening in Mason, Ohio, when I was ten. I participated in baseball, basketball, and diving. I was diagnosed with an atrial septal defect. I had surgery to repair the hole and started wearing a protective shirt during activity. I am graduating from Miami University.”

Valerie Krawitz

“I attended a heart screening at Colonial Middle School when I was ten. I played baseball, soccer, and track. I was diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome and an atrial septal defect. I had heart surgery to repair the hole and I take medicine for the Long QT. I can’t play competitive sports like I once did, but found other activities. Next year, I’m attending Penn State University.”

Drew Harrington

“I attended a heart screening at Radnor High School when I was ten. I played lacrosse, tennis, and basketball. I was diagnosed with Wolff Parkinson White Syndrome. I used to feel my heart beat really fast, but just assumed it was fine. Coincidentally, on Simon’s 7th birthday, I had a procedure called an ablation. Today, my heart is fine and I attend the University of Richmond.”

Alaysia Keeley

“I attended a heart screening at Norristown High School when I was ten. I played softball and enjoyed going to the mall with my friends. I was diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome. I had to stop playing sports and drinking soda. Now, I take medication and live a normal life.”

Kyle McCabe

“I attended a heart screening at Norristown High School when I was ten. I played baseball, basketball, and football. I was diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome. I stopped playing sports to protect my heart, but I still manage to have fun.”

Melissa Fair

“I attended a heart screening at Colonial Middle School when I was ten. I loved dancing and hanging out with my friends. I was diagnosed with Partial Anomolous Pulmonary Venous Return and Atrial Septal Defect. The doctor told me that my life would have been cut short if I hadn’t found out. I’m graduating from Penn State University this year.”

Zach Steffens

“I attended a heart screening at Stillman Elementary School in Tenafly, N.J., when I was fourteen years old. I love running, Tae Kwon Do, and Armenian cultural dancing. I was diagnosed with a rare congenital defect called ALCAPA (Anomalous Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery). I had open-heart surgery and recovered well. One month later, I suffered a cardiac arrest and an automated external defibrillator (AED) saved my life. I now have an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and am healthier than ever. I will be attending The College of New Jersey and majoring in biomedical engineering.”

Annie FitzPatrick

“I went into sudden cardiac arrest at a local convenience store when I was 19 years old. My heart stopped and the only reason I am alive today is because an AED was readily available. I was diagnosed with Long QT Syndrome shortly after and was introduced to Darren and Phyllis with Simon’s Heart. I have been an active volunteer ever since. I went on to graduate Cum Laude from Drexel University with a double major in Business Analytics and Marketing and now work at a leading chemical company.”

Maeve Quinn

"I had a sudden cardiac arrest during softball tryouts at my high school. I was 15 years old. Thanks to the quick thinking of my coach and athletic trainer, they started doing CPR and using an AED immediately. This helped save my life. I had an implantable defibrillator surgically placed in case this happens again. I volunteer to educate people on the importance of screenings, learning CPR and the use of AEDs. Anyone can save a life like mine! I am planning on going to college for nursing."