Brugada Syndrome
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Brugada syndrome is a rare heart condition that affects the heart's electrical system. It can cause a dangerous irregular heartbeat, which may lead to fainting or cardiac arrest. Many people with it have no symptoms, but it is important to diagnose and manage it to reduce risks.
Key facts
- It is often inherited from a parent.
- It affects the heart's electrical activity, not the heart muscle itself.
- Some people only find out they have it after a routine ECG.
No, it is rare. It is estimated to affect about 1 in 5,000 to 10,000 people worldwide.
It can affect anyone, but symptoms are more common in men and often appear in adulthood, usually after age 30. In some people, it is first noticed in childhood.
Symptoms
- Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness
- Seizure-like movements
- No breathing or no pulse (cardiac arrest) — start CPR immediately and call your local emergency number
- ⚠Fainting that you cannot explain
- ⚠Repeated episodes of rapid heartbeat or faintness
- ⚠Chest pain or breathlessness that comes and goes
Common symptoms
- No symptoms at all (many people have no signs)
- Fainting or near-fainting (syncope) — especially during fever, rest, or stress
- Irregular or racing heartbeat (palpitations)
Symptoms in children
- Fainting during fever
- Seizures (caused by the heart suddenly pumping less blood to the brain)
- Breathless or pale appearance without clear cause
Symptoms in older adults
- Fainting or dizzy spells
- Sudden waking from sleep with gasping or distress
- Occasional chest discomfort or palpitations
Causes
Main causes
- A genetic change (mutation) affects the heart's sodium channels, which help control the heart's electrical signals.
- Inherited from a parent — if a parent has the gene change, each child has a 50% chance of inheriting it.
- Sometimes the gene change happens on its own (new mutation) with no family history.
Risk factors
- Having a parent or sibling with Brugada syndrome
- Being male
- Fever, particularly in children
- Heavy alcohol use
- Certain medications that affect heart electrical activity (ask your doctor before taking any new medicine)
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you faint for no clear reason, especially during a fever or at night
- If you feel a racing or fluttering heartbeat that does not settle quickly
- If you have a family history of Brugada syndrome and are worried about your risk
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have a close relative with Brugada syndrome, ask your doctor for a referral to a heart specialist (cardiologist).
- If you experience dizzy spells or palpitations that come and go, bring them up at your next check-up.
Diagnosis
A doctor (usually a heart specialist) will review your symptoms, family history, and do an ECG. In some cases, a medicine is given during the ECG to uncover a hidden Brugada pattern — this is done in a safe, monitored setting.
Tests that may be done
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) — a quick, painless test that records the heart's electrical activity
- Holter monitor — a portable ECG you wear for 24 to 48 hours
- Genetic test — a blood test that looks for the gene change responsible
- Electrophysiology study — a special method to check the heart's electrical pathways if needed
What to expect at your appointment
You will usually see a cardiologist. They will explain what tests are needed and why. If you feel anxious, bring someone you trust. The tests are generally comfortable and take a few hours at most.
Treatment
The main goal of treatment is to prevent dangerous heart rhythms. Your care team will tailor a plan based on your age, symptoms, and test results. Some people need an implanted device called a defibrillator (ICD) to stop dangerous rhythms; others only need regular monitoring.
Self-care at home
- Learn CPR — knowing what to do in an emergency can save a life.
- Tell close family and friends about your condition and what to do if you collapse.
- Wear a medical alert bracelet or carry a card that says you have Brugada syndrome.
- Avoid heavy alcohol use. Treat fevers promptly with a fever-reducing medicine as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist, and stay cool in hot weather.
Medical treatments
Medical treatments focus on lowering the risk of dangerous rhythms. This may include medicines to stabilise the heart's electrical activity (your doctor will decide the most suitable one for you), avoiding medications that can worsen the pattern, and implanting a small defibrillator (ICD) under the skin that shocks the heart quickly if a dangerous rhythm starts. The choice of treatment is always personal and based on your specific situation.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is not the main treatment. The most common procedure is implanting an ICD, which is done under local anaesthetic and takes about an hour. In rare cases, a procedure to remove the tissue causing the abnormal rhythm (catheter ablation) may be offered.
Living with this condition
Most people with Brugada syndrome can live a normal life. Regular check-ups with your heart team keep you safe. Learn what triggers you personally (for example, fever or heavy alcohol) and avoid them as much as possible.
Lifestyle tips
- Keep a fever diary: check your temperature if you feel unwell, and act early.
- Stay alcohol-free or keep any alcohol very light.
- Avoid recreational drugs. Talk to your doctor about any over-the-counter medicines before taking them.
- Stay cool in hot weather to avoid heat stress.
Diet and exercise
There is no special diet required for Brugada syndrome. Eating a balanced, heart-healthy diet is always a good idea. Gentle to moderate exercise is usually fine, but speak to your heart team about your specific limits — some very intense exercise may not be recommended if you have an ICD.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Living with any heart condition can feel worrying. It is normal to feel anxious or down at times, especially after a new diagnosis. Talking to a counsellor, psychologist, or support group can help. Your doctor can point you to local services.
Prevention
You cannot change the gene you carry, but you can reduce the risk of dangerous rhythms. This means avoiding triggers, staying on top of fevers, taking your prescribed care seriously, and attending follow-up appointments. The condition itself cannot be prevented if it is inherited.
Vaccines
Vaccines are not related to Brugada syndrome itself, but keeping up to date with routine vaccines is still important for your overall health.
Screening programmes
Family screening is important. If someone in your family is diagnosed with Brugada syndrome, close relatives (parents, siblings, children) are usually offered an ECG and a referral to a specialist. Genetic testing can also clarify the risk for other family members.
Complications
If left untreated
- Sudden cardiac arrest (the heart suddenly stops beating)
- Recurrent fainting that can cause falls and injury
- Anxiety and worry about unexpected episodes
Long-term outlook
With the right care and monitoring, most people with Brugada syndrome live a full life. The death rate is low in people who follow their treatment plan and avoid triggers. An ICD can be life-saving. It is normal to have questions, but there is strong scientific evidence that many people remain symptom-free for years.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- British Heart Foundation ↗ · United Kingdom
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: August 2, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.