Types of defects: Heart rhythm defects

Congenital heart rhythm defects, which involve the electrical or conduction system of the heart, are rare. The heart's electrical conduction system functions like microscopic wiring, stimulating the heart muscle to contract in a specific sequence so that the blood circulates through the heart and lungs efficiently and oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the rest of the body.

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One example of a congenital heart rhythm defect is long QT syndrome, in which an individual is vulnerable to fast, chaotic heartbeats that may lead to fainting and even cardiac arrest.