Overview
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a medical emergency that results in the sudden loss of heart activity. Although it is similiar, this is NOT a heart attack. The differences between the two can be read here. It is also noted that a heart attack can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. Sudden cardiac arrest is fatal if not treated immediately, so it is recommended to start CPR or to find an AED immediately.
Causes/Symptoms, Remedies, & Precautions
The main cause for sudden cardiac arrest is irregular heart rhythms, the most common one being V-fib; there are also arrhythmias diseases such as bradycardia and tachycardia. Other causes can be heart diseases such as coronary artery disease, which can be read more about here, or congenital heart diseases.
Symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest are sudden collapsing, no pulse/breath, and loss of consciousness. Patients may feel shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or weakness.
It is crucial to call 911 immediately to treat an individual experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. Additionally, if anyone present knows CPR, it is crucial to start the process. It is also important for civilians to note any AED machines nearby if no one knows how to perform CPR. Steps on how to perform these procedures and become certified in CPR can be read here.
Sudden cardiac arrest can affect any age range but is more susceptible to those with underlying conditions. Those with family histories of heart disease, heart attack, or sudden cardiac arrest are highly encouraged to get genetic screening done to check for risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Similarly, it also affects those who have an unhealthy lifestyle; smoking, alcohol use, lack of exercise, etc. Healthy lifestyles are highly encouraged for those at risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
Other Facts & Interesting News
Around 356,000 people experience sudden cardiac arrest with 9 out of 10 people dying. This is why it is highly encouraged for civilians to learn CPR and how to properly manage an AED machine. The use of these techniques can double or triple the survival rate of the person experiencing cardiac arrest.
Sources I Used & Where to Learn More
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sudden-cardiac-arrest/symptoms-causes/syc-20350634
- https://www.sca-aware.org/about-sca
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks/heart-attack-or-sudden-cardiac-arrest-how-are-they-different
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21736-cardiac-arrest
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21878-ventricular-fibrillation
- https://cpr.heart.org/en/cpr-courses-and-kits