Wolf Parkinson White - should I have an ablation?

[FlyingSquirrel]

Hi

I'm 41 and keen runner. Last year I had my first and only seizure while running. After lots of tests done for epilepsy all came back clear, although this does not rule out epilepsy it makes it unlikely (great). I have had cancer in the past and I am therefore extremely glad it wasn't that too.

A stressful time, not knowing whether another seizure could happen at any point, I really admire those people living with epilepsy.

I then saw a cardiologist 7 months later (long wait list) and was diagnosed with Wolf Parkinson White Syndrome (WPW), an abnormality of the heart, which I have had all my life. Seems doctors previously knew this but still signed me off to do a marathon. It was unsure whether the seizure was caused by WPW or not, probably unlikely.

However, I was recommended to have an EP investigation and then if deemed necessary a catheter ablation at the same time. On balance this was stated by the consultant as less risky (a 1% chance of serious complications with the ablation). After doing some reading I now realise that WPW is not very risky but does carry a risk of sudden death each year of your life - but less than 1% per year - I think, medical journals I find hard to read and there is disagreement on this for 'older' patients.

I am currently on a waiting list to have the investigation and ablation done. They are done at the same time, so I will be on the operating table at the point I need to say yay or nay to the ablation - most likely I'll say yes if the consultant thinks it is necessary.

My conundrum is therefore whether

- I need more tests, like an exercise test or I just go with what the consultant said, after some reading I dont know whether another test is normal or not.

- whether to go ahead with the EP and then possible ablation, given that the risk of ablation is higher in the short term than leaving it, but the cumulative risk of sudden death is higher over the next X number of years of my life in the longrun.

This has certainly brought about some quite philosophical thoughts in me about what I want in life in the short term and the long term, and what balance each gets!

Any help from those that have gone through this or know someone who has are welcome, or medical professional very welcome - thank you.

[Larachez2102]

Hi there they seem to

Think I have this or svt so I’m waiting the ablation. Could you tell me what your heart rate would get to with an attack and how long it lasts.

[jubemmeva]

Hi there, not sure if you still check out this site. i'm curious to know if you went ahead and got the ablation done? i too was diagnosed with WPW this year and got the ablation done in April this year. i really had no choice, but to get it done because i was bed ridden and couldn't do anything, no movements, or lift anything, or really walk without my heart beating crazy fast. in my opinion you are way better off getting the ablation. there is a 95% chance that it will get corrected and it will not return if you do decide to get it done.