Warning signs

Of note, there are many innocent explanations for the symptoms below, which do not involve heart disease or sudden death. If you or a family member does experience any of these it is recommended to discuss with your family doctor who can decide if further investigation is necessary.

• Family history of unexplained and unexpected sudden death, especially under the age of 40
• Family history of sudden death due a condition that may be inherited (such as cardiomyopathy- a form of heart disease)
• Living family member diagnosed with a condition that might be inherited (such as cardiomyopathy or long QT syndrome)
• Fainting or seizure during exercise, excitement or startle
• Heart palpitations (especially if prolonged and/or causing dizziness or collapse)
• Chest pain or discomfort usually brought on by relatively modest exercise, which occurs repeatedly
• Shortness of breath during exercise