What is Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome?
A person with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome has abnormal electrical impulses in the heart. An electrical impulse stimulates the muscle fibers in the heart to contract. Normally, the impulse spreads through the heart in a very organized manner, so that the atria contract first, followed by the ventricles. The abnormal impulse in someone with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome results in an abnormal heart rhythm. Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome is caused by abnormal development of the heart in the womb. The cause of the abnormal development is unknown. Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome affects less than 2 out of 1000 people in the US.

What are the symptoms of Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome?
Most people with Wolf-Parkinson-White syndrome do not have symptoms, unless they develop an abnormal rhythm. Symptoms of an abnormal rhythm caused by Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome include chest pain, faintness, palpitations, difficulty breathing, or excessive sweating.

How does the doctor treat Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome?
Treatment for Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome may include medication, pacemaker therapy, angioplasty, or surgery.