Should I be tested for Long QT Syndrome??!?!?!?!

[tigger2211]

My half brother (my fathers son), died from LQT at the age of 23. I understand that, as a sibling, I "should" get tested, but he was my "half" brother and Im wondering if I'd still be at risk?! Nobody on my fathers side has it and he comes from a huge family. I do suffer from PVC's and have been through enough stress in my life to kill ANYBODY. The only other issue I have with my heart, aside from the PVC's is, when I have trapped gas, it sometimes races and palpitates until I pass it. Other than that, I have had a couple of EKG's done before and nobody has said anything about me having LQT. I am 34 years old. Im probably going to get checked regardless, but Im wondering if anybody had any insight as to whether or not they have been through the same situation or not? I have no history of fainting (i've never fainted in my life), but I do get the odd dizzy spell which I attribute to my anxiety and panic disorder, being too hungry, standing up too fast, etc....nothing major.

Thanks in advance!

[heart_of_mine]

Sorry to hear about your brother. You should definitely be tested. It takes only one parent to pass on LQTS. Many family members could have it and just not know about it. There are some people who have sudden death as their first symptom. Has your father been tested? Encourage him to if he hasn't. There is no longer the assumption that just because you have lived past 40 that it won't affect you. I am over 40 and just got diagnosed.
Try to keep yourself well hydrated and eat properly and get a referral to a heart rhythm specialist (Electrophysiolgist). Also there are over 50 medications that can make LQTS worse so google QT Drug List and avoid all the medications on that list.
Good luck

[crystalhanzelka]

I would.  But of course LQT scares the **** out of me....