Cardiac Arrest is a highly alarming health condition leading to sudden death. It has become more common in youth nowadays. In India, it is reported that around 5 to 6 lakh people die every year because of sudden cardiac death. Surprisingly, a good proportion of people are under the age of 50.
With the rising cardiac arrest rates in youth, researchers in the medical science field have become more concerned about knowing the reasons to bring it to the table. Now, it is high time for people to be aware of the facts behind sudden cardiac arrest.
Just imagine a healthy young person collapses suddenly and loses consciousness, fighting to survive. This is the terrifying scenario of sudden cardiac arrest, which is life-threatening, where the heart suddenly stops functioning. During these critical times, survival depends on the quick action of first responders who use vital life-saving measures such as CPR and automatic defibrillation. In this blog, we will discuss the truth behind this deadly condition.
Overview Of SCA – Sudden Cardiac Arrest
SCA – Sudden cardiac arrest is a medical emergency where the heart loses all its function suddenly. This is due to an irregular heart rhythm, which stops the breathing process. This makes the person unconscious. With no quick access to immediate treatment, it can lead to death.
There are two effective emergency treatments for this heart condition: cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED). The survival rate can increase when the person gets fast and appropriate medical care.
At Agilus Diagnostics, we have a Complete Heart Check package that includes LIPID PROFILE, HBA1C, APOLIPOPROTEIN-A1, APOLIPOPROTEIN-B, APOLIPOPROTEIN A1/B RATION, LIPOPROTEIN (A) and HSCRP.
Difference Between Cardiac Arrest And Heart Attack?
Sudden cardiac arrest is not always the same as a heart attack. A heart attack occurs when the blood flow is blocked at some part of your heart. But cardiac arrest is not caused due to blockage. However, a heart attack will bring changes in the electrical activity of the heart, leading to sudden cardiac arrest.
Risk factors of sudden cardiac death
- Family history of sudden death under age 50.
- A family member having inherited heart muscle condition or electrical problem
- An abnormal heart rate or rhythm with an unknown cause
- Chest pain during intense exercise
- Fainting out without warning
- People born with a congenital heart defect
- Surgically repaired heart function
Causes Behind The Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Young People
Still, the studies on sudden cardiac arrest in young people are in progress. Sometimes, it is hard to find the exact cause of it in young adults, and it remains mysterious. However, we have brought up the possible causes here.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a very common cause of SCA in young people. This condition mostly remains undiagnosed. It is caused by the thickened muscle cells in the lower chambers of the heart that lead to abnormal heart rhythms. This can trigger during intense exercise sessions.
Coronary Artery Abnormalities
This abnormal condition is caused by defects in the coronary arteries in the heart. Coronary artery disease will eventually decrease the blood supply to the heart muscle during intense workout sessions, leading to cardiac arrest. Many young people with this condition will not experience any signs or symptoms until they get older. Through the ECG test, you can get confirmation of this condition. Book our Complete Care Total with Radiology package online, which includes ECG.
Primary Arrhythmias
Even people with normal heart structure can suffer from SCA due to undiagnosed genetic conditions which affect the electrical impulses of your heart. This includes conditions that are genetically transferred, such as;
- Long QT syndrome – It is a heart-rhythmic condition that leads to abnormal and rapid heartbeats.
- Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD) – This condition is also inherited, where the person’s heart muscle tissue is replaced with scar tissue.
- Wolff-Parkinson – It is also known as White syndrome. It is an extra pathway that results in rapid pumping.
Coronary Atherosclerosis
There are several reasons that lead to SCA in younger adults. It is necessary to identify this condition at the earliest. It is increasing because of sedentary lifestyles, alcohol consumption, diabetes, smoking, irregular sleep cycles, obesity, hypertension and high-stress working environments. All these factors will increase the risk of SCA with medical complications.
Electrolyte Imbalances
Electrolytes maintain the chemistry of the body to let it function correctly. The important electrolytes are potassium, calcium and sodium. Abnormalities in electrolytes can lead to cardiovascular emergencies. Further, the condition can cause sudden cardiac arrest.
Myocarditis
Myocarditis is a heart condition that is caused by infection and leads to severe inflammation of the heart walls. Often, this condition in people occurs when the virus infects the heart. Besides, other microbial conditions, such as bacterial and fungal as well as parasite infections, can cause Myocarditis. Studies have found that allergic reactions also lead to this condition.
Commotio Cordis
Commotio Cordis is caused by a sudden blow to the chest over the heart. It can occur in people who also have normal heart function. This condition is common in people who are playing sports such as baseball.
Also Read: Difference Between a Heart Attack and a Cardiac Arrest?
Why should young adults be screened for sudden cardiac arrest?
An early prevention is always better than a cure. Performing screening tests such as electrocardiogram (EKG) and echocardiogram for suspected young people, especially athletes, will help to identify the current heart conditions. If you notice symptoms of irregular heartbeats, immediately book an ECG at our nearest lab.
It is also recommended to watch for possible risk factors and warning signs that are necessary for people whose family history has heart problems. In this case, proper medical history records and cardiology and genetic screening should be done to know the heart conditions which can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. This will be very effective in reducing the possible risk of sudden death.
Final Thoughts
Every young adult has to be aware of their heart function and condition. Necessary screening and tests have to be done in case of family history or other warning signs noticed during day-to-day activities. You can book heart-related screenings and blood tests at our lab online from our site. Choose our lab centre, which is nearest to your place.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
