Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-07

Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome is typically diagnosed through a professional medical evaluation involving an electrocardiogram (ECG) that identifies a specific electrical pattern known as a delta wave, which signifies an extra electrical pathway in the heart. Recognizing Potential Symptoms Many individuals with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome are asymptomatic and only discover the condition during routine check-ups. However, if symptoms occur, they often manifest as sudden episodes of rapid or irregular heartbeats (tachycardia), dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting (syncope).

2 people with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.

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How do I know if I have Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome?

Could you have Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome? Early signs that prompted real patients to seek diagnosis, plus medically reviewed guidance.

Do I have Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome?

Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome is typically diagnosed through a professional medical evaluation involving an electrocardiogram (ECG) that identifies a specific electrical pattern known as a delta wave, which signifies an extra electrical pathway in the heart.



Recognizing Potential Symptoms


Many individuals with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome are asymptomatic and only discover the condition during routine check-ups. However, if symptoms occur, they often manifest as sudden episodes of rapid or irregular heartbeats (tachycardia), dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting (syncope). Unlike normal variations in heart rate caused by exercise or stress, these episodes often begin and end abruptly without an obvious trigger.



When to See a Doctor


If you experience heart palpitations that feel unusually fast, pounding, or sustained, you should schedule an appointment with your primary care physician. Be specific when describing your experience: note how long the episodes last, what you were doing when they started, and if you feel chest pain or shortness of breath. If you are told your symptoms are merely anxiety, advocate for yourself by requesting a formal cardiac workup, specifically mentioning your concerns about structural or electrical heart conditions like Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.



Diagnostic Testing and Red Flags


The standard test to screen for Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome is a 12-lead ECG. If your doctor suspects the condition, they may refer you to a cardiac electrophysiologist for further testing, such as a Holter monitor or an electrophysiology study. Seek immediate emergency medical care if you experience chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, or a heart rate that remains dangerously high while at rest, as these are critical red flags associated with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome.



Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes and does not substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions regarding a medical condition.



References



  • NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)

  • Orphanet: The portal for rare diseases and orphan drugs

  • American Heart Association: Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome resources

Author: DiseaseMaps Editorial Team
Reviewed against authoritative medical sources (NIH GARD, Orphanet, OMIM)
Last updated: 2026-04-07
Sources cited: NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) · Orphanet: The portal for rare diseases and orphan drugs · American Heart Association: Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome resources
Medical disclaimer: This information does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before making health decisions.
Source: DiseaseMaps.org
3 answers
bulunduğun yerdeki hastaneleri araştır.küçük yerlerde bu hastalığı bilmezler.
katater ablasyon tedavisi yapabilen bir hastahanede kolaylıkla teşhis edilebilir.
her kalp uzmanı bu hastalığın uzmanı değil.o yüzden rastgele bir kalp doktoruna güvenme.

Posted Jul 27, 2017 by MURAT TÜRK 1750
See your doctor and have an ekg.

Posted Sep 20, 2017 by Amy 1350

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I was born in 2014 at 26 weeks weighing 630g.  I had 1 episode of SVT and diagnosed with WPW in August 2014 and have been on propranolol ever since.  If anyone can help my mummy and daddy understand this disease better and what it's like living wi...
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One day i was going to college when my heart started beating too fast. I didn't understand anything and I was terrified. I went to a clinic, they diagnosed  me to tell me that I was born with a very rare syndrome, and it's going to affect my life, ...
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I HAD NO IDEA THAT I HAD WPW UNTIL I WOKE UP IN HOSPITAL AND WAS TOLD THAT I HAD IT . I HAD 2 MASSIVE HEART ATTACKS APPARENTLY DIED TWICE GOT PUT INTO A COMA WHILE I WAS IN THE COMA I WAS GIVEN A 10% CHANCE THAT I WOULD COME OUT OF IT. THEY SAID IF ...
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About 10 years ago, I was diagnosed with WPW. Had the surgery within a year to correct it, and have been symptom free ever since.
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when I was 18 days old I wasn't feeding very well so mummy took me to the doctors the next day at 19 days, we saw a locum doctor who said I had oral thrush which is why I wasn't feeding. On the day I turned 20 days old I started making a grunting noi...

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I went to the hospital yesterday for my review of ecg, heart scan and 24 hour monitor results as in March I was admitted to a&e for being dehydrated in pregnancy. Im currently 24 weeks pregnant with my first and have now been diagnosed with this ...

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