4 February, 2025

Inherited heart conditions: Genetic risk for heart problems and hereditary arrhythmia

Heart diseases do not only develop due to acquired risk factors, such as smoking or hypertension. There are hereditary or inherited heart conditions that can affect multiple generations within the same family, often without showing obvious symptoms until a serious event occurs, such as an arrhythmia or even sudden cardiac death. These conditions are known as familial cardiomyopathies, a group of Inherited Heart Diseases and genetic heart disorders that require early diagnosis and specialized monitoring.

What are Inherited Heart Conditions, and why is it important to detect them?

Familial Cardiomyopathies are a group of heart diseases caused by genetic alterations that can be passed down through generations. This group includes:

• Cardiomyopathies: These affect the structure of the heart muscle and may lead to heart failure.
• Channelopathies: Disorders of the heart’s ion channels that predispose individuals to severe arrhythmias.
• Aortopathies: Diseases affecting the aorta that may cause aneurysms or dissections.

These diseases often do not show symptoms until severe complications arise. This is why early identification and screening of close family members of diagnosed patients is crucial.

Are heart attacks hereditary?

While myocardial infarction is generally linked to acquired factors such as obesity, high cholesterol, or a sedentary lifestyle, there are cases where genetic predisposition plays a key role. Some genetic heart diseases can increase the risk of experiencing a hereditary heart attack, even in young individuals with no classic risk factors.

Therefore, if there is a family history of heart attacks, it is advisable to undergo a cardiological evaluation to detect potential hereditary conditions.

Are arrhythmias hereditary?

Yes, some arrhythmias can be hereditary, particularly those caused by channelopathies, such as Brugada syndrome or long QT syndrome. These electrical abnormalities in the heart can trigger episodes of malignant tachycardia and even sudden cardiac death in young, seemingly healthy individuals.

Is heart failure hereditary?

Some forms of heart failure are hereditary, particularly those associated with genetic cardiomyopathies, such as dilated cardiomyopathy or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. In these cases, the heart gradually loses its ability to pump blood effectively, leading to fatigue, shortness of breath, and exercise intolerance.

How barnaclínic+ can help you

At barnaclínic+, we have a specialized Inherited Heart Diseases and Sudden Cardiac Death Unit dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of hereditary heart diseases. Our multidisciplinary team provides a comprehensive assessment, including:

• Clinical evaluation and advanced imaging tests (echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, CT scan, etc.).
• Electrophysiological studies to analyze the heart’s electrical activity.
• Genetic testing to identify mutations responsible for hereditary cardiopathies.
• Family counseling for diagnosed patients, with regular check-ups and preventive measures.

“Familial Cardiomyopathies can lead to sudden cardiac death, which is why identifying them early and screening the entire family is crucial,” emphasizes Dr. Elena Arbelo, cardiologist at the Inherited Heart Diseases and Sudden Cardiac Death Unit of barnaclínic+.

“Familial cardiopathies can lead to sudden cardiac death, which is why identifying them early and screening the entire family is crucial.”

Dr. Elena Arbelo, cardiologist at the Inherited Heart Diseases and Sudden Cardiac Death Unit

If your family has a history of heart conditions or you have experienced symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, or unexplained fainting, book an appointment with our specialized team. Early detection can make a difference for your health and that of your loved ones.