Brugada Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Updated: 2 days ago
Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026
Quick answer
Brugada syndrome is a rare, sometimes inherited heart rhythm condition that raises the risk of dangerous irregular heartbeats starting in the ventricles. It often causes no symptoms, but can cause dizziness, fainting, palpitations and seizures. Fainting that may come from a heart condition is an emergency. Treatment may include avoiding triggering drugs, quinidine, an ICD or catheter ablation. [1] [8] [2]
What the research says
According to PubMed:
Fever and drugs can unmask the pattern. In a 30-year Mayo Clinic review of 5,381,186 ECGs from 2,304,809 patients, 150 had a type 1 Brugada pattern; 62.0% were spontaneous, 18.7% fever-induced, and 10.7% drug-induced. Major arrhythmic events occurred in 8.6% (spontaneous), 7.1% (fever-induced), and 12.5% (drug-induced) during follow-up. (Rattanawong et al., DOI).
ICDs save lives but carry real trade-offs. A meta-analysis of 63 studies with 4,916 patients with inherited arrhythmia syndromes (including Brugada syndrome) found inappropriate shocks in 20% of patients and ICD-related complications in 22%, with 0.5% ICD-related mortality. (Olde Nordkamp et al., DOI).
Quinidine changes how the heart recovers between beats. In 12 patients with Brugada syndrome taking hydroquinidine 300 mg twice daily, repolarization time in the right ventricular outflow tract rose from 301.1 ms to 348.8 ms (P<.001). One patient developed frequent nonsustained ventricular tachycardia on treatment. (Isbister et al., DOI).
Study details are from PubMed abstracts.
Key facts at a glance
Fact | Detail |
What it is | A rare, sometimes inherited heart rhythm condition (arrhythmia) [1] |
Where it starts | Irregular heartbeats beginning in the lower chambers (ventricles) [1] |
Who it affects | Usually diagnosed in adults and sometimes adolescents; rarely in young children [2] |
Main signs | |
Main clue | An irregular result on an electrocardiogram (ECG) [1] |
Key prevention | Genetic testing when a family member has the condition; treat fevers early [1] |
What is Brugada syndrome?
Brugada syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening heart rhythm condition that is sometimes inherited. People who have it face an increased risk of irregular heart rhythms that begin in the lower chambers of the heart, the ventricles. [1]
Every heartbeat starts with an electrical signal made by a group of cells at the top of the heart called the sinus node. Tiny pores, called ion channels, on heart cells control the electrical currents that keep the heart beating in a steady rhythm. [1] [8]
In Brugada syndrome, a change in these channels causes the heart to beat too fast, creating a dangerous heart rhythm called ventricular fibrillation. As a result, the heart does not pump enough blood to the rest of the body. [1]
A short irregular rhythm can cause fainting. Sudden cardiac death can occur if the irregular heartbeat does not stop. [1]
What does Brugada syndrome feel like?
Brugada syndrome often does not cause any noticeable symptoms. Many people with the condition do not know they have it. [1]
Signs and symptoms that may be associated with the condition include dizziness, fainting, gasping and labored breathing especially at night, irregular heartbeats or palpitations, an extremely fast and chaotic heartbeat, and seizures. [1] [8]
A major sign is an irregular result on an electrocardiogram (ECG). This is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. [1]
When should you see a doctor about Brugada syndrome?
The signs of Brugada syndrome look similar to those of some other heart rhythm disorders. It is important to see a healthcare provider to find out whether this condition or another heart rhythm disorder is causing the symptoms. [1] [8]
If you faint and you think it may be because of a heart condition, seek emergency medical attention right away. [1]
If your parent, sibling, or child has been diagnosed with Brugada syndrome, ask your provider whether you should have testing to see if you are at risk. [1]
What causes Brugada syndrome?
Each beat of the heart is triggered by an electrical signal made by a group of cells at the top of the heart called the sinus node. Tiny pores called ion channels on heart cells direct this electrical activity. [1] [8]
In Brugada syndrome, a change in these channels causes the heart to beat too fast, creating a dangerous heart rhythm (ventricular fibrillation). As a result, the heart cannot pump enough blood to the rest of the body. [1]
Possible cause | What it means |
Structural heart problem | An abnormality in the structure of the heart that may be hard to detect [8] |
Electrolyte imbalance | An imbalance in the chemicals that help send electrical signals through the body [8] |
Certain medications or cocaine | Use of specific prescription medications or cocaine that can trigger the rhythm problem [1] |
Who is at higher risk of Brugada syndrome?
What complications can Brugada syndrome cause?
Complications of Brugada syndrome require emergency medical care. The two main complications are sudden cardiac arrest and fainting. [1] [8]
Complication | What happens |
Sudden cardiac arrest | |
Fainting | A fainting episode requires emergency medical attention [1] |
How is Brugada syndrome diagnosed?
Brugada syndrome usually is diagnosed in adults and sometimes in adolescents. It is rarely diagnosed in young children because the symptoms are often unnoticed. [2]
A healthcare provider performs a physical exam and listens to the heart with a stethoscope. Tests are then done to check the heartbeat and to diagnose or confirm the condition. [2]
Test | What it involves |
Electrocardiogram (ECG) | A quick, painless test that records the heart's electrical signals using sensors (electrodes) attached to the chest and sometimes the limbs. It can detect problems with the heart's rhythm and structure [2] |
24-hour Holter monitor | A portable ECG worn for a full day and night if the heartbeat appears regular during the clinic test [2] |
ECG with IV medication | Additional ECGs that include medications given through an IV which can trigger an irregular heartbeat. Used when initial ECGs and Holter tests look normal but symptoms are present [2] |
Echocardiogram | Uses sound waves to create images of the heart. Cannot diagnose the condition on its own but helps identify structural problems [2] |
Electrophysiological (EP) testing and mapping | Also called an EP study. Thin, flexible tubes (catheters) tipped with electrodes are threaded through the blood vessels to areas within the heart. The electrodes show the spread of electrical signals through the heart [2] |
How is Brugada syndrome treated?
Treatment may include medication, catheter procedures, or surgery to implant a device that controls the heartbeat. The approach depends on the risk of having a serious irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). [2]
A person is considered at high risk if they have a personal history of serious arrhythmias, fainting spells, or have survived sudden cardiac arrest. [2]
People with the condition but no symptoms may not need specific treatment because the risk of a serious irregular heartbeat is likely low. However, a provider might recommend steps to reduce the risk of irregular heartbeats. [2]
Treatment | What it involves |
Aggressive fever treatment | Fever is a known trigger of irregular heartbeats. Use fever-reducing medications at the first sign of a fever [2] |
Avoiding triggering drugs | Many drugs can increase the risk of an irregular heartbeat, including certain heart medications and antidepressants. Too much alcohol also increases the risk. Tell your provider about all medications, including nonprescription drugs and supplements [2] |
Avoiding competitive sports | May apply to people at high risk. Ask your provider whether you should avoid such activities [2] |
Medication | Quinidine may be prescribed to prevent a potentially dangerous heart rhythm, alone or together with a device [2] |
Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) | A small, battery-operated device placed in the chest that continuously monitors the heart rhythm and delivers electrical shocks when needed to control irregular heartbeats. Placement usually requires an overnight hospital stay [2] |
Catheter ablation |
One important note about the ICD: it may deliver shocks when they are not needed. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of the device with a healthcare provider before making a decision. [2]
If you have Brugada syndrome, you need regular health checkups to make sure the heart rhythm disorder is properly managed and controlled. Regular checkups can help your provider detect complications early and determine whether a treatment change is needed. [2]
Can Brugada syndrome be prevented?
If someone in your family has Brugada syndrome, genetic testing can be done to determine if you have, or are at risk of, the condition. Talk with your healthcare team about whether it is right for you. [1]
How can people cope with Brugada syndrome and find support?
Finding out you have Brugada syndrome may be challenging. You may worry about whether your treatment will work or whether other family members could be at risk. [2]
Turning to friends and family for support is essential. If you find you need more help, talk to your healthcare provider about joining a support group. Connecting with others in a support group may help ease stress related to the condition. [2]
How should you prepare for a Brugada syndrome appointment?
Preparing for a Brugada syndrome appointment means noting your symptoms, any family history of sudden death or heart conditions, and your medicines, since diagnosis may take several visits. Your provider may give you instructions on how to prepare before each visit. [2]
What you can do
Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions. At the time you make the appointment, ask if there is anything you need to do in advance. For example, if you are having an electrophysiology test, ask how long you need to fast before the test.
Write down your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated, and when they began.
Write down key personal information, especially any family history of sudden death, cardiac arrest, or heart conditions, and any personal history of fainting or heart arrhythmias.
Make a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you take, including doses.
Take a family member or friend along if possible. Someone who accompanies you may remember something that you missed or forgot.
Write down questions for your provider.
Some basic questions to ask include: What is the most likely cause of my symptoms? What tests do I need? What types of treatments are available, and which do you recommend? What is an appropriate level of physical activity? How often do I need follow-up visits? I have other health conditions; how can I best manage them together? Are there brochures or printed material I can take home? Should my family be screened? [2]
What to expect from your doctor
Your doctor is likely to ask several questions, such as whether your symptoms always occur or come and go, and how often you have signs such as fainting. [2]
Conclusion
Brugada syndrome is a rare, sometimes inherited heart rhythm condition that can cause dangerous, fast, chaotic heartbeats starting in the ventricles. It often produces no symptoms, which is why an irregular ECG result and a careful family history matter so much. [1]
Risk-based care works. People without symptoms may need only lifestyle steps such as treating fevers quickly and avoiding triggering drugs, while higher-risk people benefit from medication, an implantable device, or catheter ablation. Regular checkups keep the condition properly managed. [2]
Next steps: If you or a family member may have Brugada syndrome, talk with a healthcare provider about an ECG and whether family testing is right for you.
Frequently asked questions
What is Brugada syndrome?
Brugada syndrome is a rare, sometimes inherited heart rhythm condition that increases the risk of dangerous irregular heartbeats starting in the ventricles, the heart's lower chambers. [1]
What are the signs of Brugada syndrome?
Many people have no symptoms. When signs occur, they include dizziness, fainting, gasping and labored breathing at night, irregular heartbeats or palpitations, an extremely fast and chaotic heartbeat, and seizures. [1] [8]
How is Brugada syndrome diagnosed?
A major sign is an irregular result on an electrocardiogram (ECG), a painless test that records the heart's electrical signals. Providers may also use a 24-hour Holter monitor, an ECG with IV medication, an echocardiogram, or electrophysiological testing. [2]
How is Brugada syndrome treated?
Treatment depends on risk. People at higher risk may receive quinidine medication, an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), or catheter ablation. Everyone with the condition should treat fevers quickly and avoid medications that can trigger an irregular heartbeat. [2]
Can Brugada syndrome be passed to family members?
The condition is often inherited, so a parent, sibling, or child with the diagnosis raises the risk for others. Genetic testing can determine whether you have the condition or are at risk of it. [1] [2]
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation.
References
Mayo Clinic Staff. Brugada syndrome - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. September 21, 2026. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/brugada-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20370489
Mayo Clinic Staff. Brugada syndrome - Diagnosis and treatment. Mayo Clinic. May 5, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/brugada-syndrome/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370494
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Heart treatments (catheter ablation). NHLBI, NIH. March 24, 2022. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/heart-treatments-procedures
American Heart Association. Cardiac arrest. American Heart Association. Accessed October 14, 2026. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiac-arrest
Rattanawong P, Mead-Harvey C, Fatunde OA, et al. Prevalence and incidence of type 1 Brugada pattern: a 30-year experience at Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clin Proc. 2025;100(1):80-93. PMID 39641715. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2024.05.028
Olde Nordkamp LR, Postema PG, Knops RE, et al. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator harm in young patients with inherited arrhythmia syndromes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of inappropriate shocks and complications. Heart Rhythm. 2016;13(2):443-454. PMID 26385533. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hrthm.2015.09.010
Isbister JC, Strocchi M, Riedy M, et al. Noninvasive assessment of hydroquinidine effect in Brugada syndrome (QUIET BrS). Heart Rhythm. 2025;22(11):2906-2916. PMID 39675648. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hrthm.2024.12.014
Shukla K, Basile EJ, Van Name JP, et al. Brugada Syndrome. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan-. Updated December 1, 2025. PMID 30137852. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519568/
Peltenburg PJ, Hoedemaekers YM, Clur SAB, et al. Screening, diagnosis and follow-up of Brugada syndrome in children: a Dutch expert consensus statement. Neth Heart J. 2023;31(4):133-137. PMID 36223066. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12471-022-01723-6
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