Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome in Children
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 6, 2024.
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a condition that causes tachycardia (fast heartbeat). A normal heartbeat in babies is 100 to 150 beats per minute, and 55 to 110 in older children. WPW may cause 150 to 300 heartbeats per minute. WPW develops because an extra piece of heart muscle causes more electrical activity within your child's heart. WPW can develop for no known reason. Congenital heart disease or a family history of WPW can increase your child's risk.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Seek care immediately if:
- Your older child has chest pain or feels dizzy or faint.
- Your child has fast or abnormal heartbeats even after treatment.
Contact your child's healthcare provider if:
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Medicines:
- Medicines may be given to slow or regulate your child's heartbeat.
- Give your child's medicine as directed. Contact your child's healthcare provider if you think the medicine is not working as expected. Tell the provider if your child is allergic to any medicine. Keep a current list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs your child takes. Include the amounts, and when, how, and why they are taken. Bring the list or the medicines in their containers to follow-up visits. Carry your child's medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
- Do not give aspirin to children younger than 18 years. Your child could develop Reye syndrome if he or she has the flu or a fever and takes aspirin. Reye syndrome can cause life-threatening brain and liver damage. Check your child's medicine labels for aspirin or salicylates.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
Follow up with your child's healthcare provider as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Vagal maneuvers:
Vagal maneuvers are methods that can slow your child's heartbeat during a WPW episode. Your child's provider may recommend your child coughs, holds his or her breath, or puts an ice pack on his or her face.
Have your child carry medical alert identification:
Have your child wear jewelry or carry a card that says he or she has WPW. Ask your child's provider where to get these items.
Ask about exercise:
Exercise can cause episodes of irregular heartbeats. Ask your child's provider how much exercise your child needs each day and which exercises are safe for him or her. Ask if he or she can play sports.
Limit your child's caffeine as directed:
Caffeine can trigger episodes of irregular heartbeats. Your child's provider may tell you not to allow your child to have caffeine.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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