Introduction

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a heart condition that causes the heart to beat abnormally fast for periods of time.

It's a relatively common condition, affecting between one and three in every 1,000 people.

The cause isan extra electrical connection in the heart. This problem with the heart ispresent at birth (congenital), although symptoms may not develop until later in life. Many cases are diagnosed in otherwise healthy adults aged between 20 and 40.

Sometimes the extra electrical connection won't cause any symptoms and may only be picked up when an electrocardiogram (ECG) test is carried out for another reason. In these cases, further tests will be done to determine if treatment is required.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 30 Nov 2016