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WOLFF-PARKINSON-WHITE SYNDROME
The Normal Heart Rhythm:
The normal heart consists of 4 chambers, the right and left atria (upper chambers), and the right and left ventricles (lower chambers). During each heartbeat, the 2 atria contract, pushing blood into the ventricles, this is followed by the 2 ventricles contracting, pushing blood to the lungs and to the rest of the body.
This coordinated contracting of the heat is directed by the heart's electrical system. The electrical impulses begin in an area called the sino-atrial (SA) node, found in the upper part of the right atrium. When the SA node fires, an electrical impulse passes through the right and left atria, causing them to contract.
The electrical impulses then travel to the atrioventricular (AV) node and through the Bundle of His, before spreading through the muscles of the ventricles, thereby causing them to contract. The AV node acts like an electrical bridge, slowing down the electrical impulse before passing it on to the ventricular muscles.
Blood from the right ventricle gets pumped into the pulmonary (lung) system, whilst blood from the left ventricle gets pumped to the rest of the body.
A normal heart has a constant, regular rhythm, beating at about 60 to 100 times per minute, when at rest.
What is Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome?
In Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, an abnormal electrical connection (also known as a bypass tract), exists between the atria and the ventricles of the heart. This abnormal connection allows electrical signals to bypass the AV node, and enter the ventricles directly, resulting in an abnormally fast heart rate.
The electrical abnormality in Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome may be identified on an electrocardiogram.
Find a Cardiologist
The article above is meant to provide general information and does not replace a doctor's consultation.
Please see your doctor for professional advice.
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