Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)

Overview

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating due to an irregular heart rhythm. This can happen to anyone, regardless of age or health status, and can be fatal if not treated promptly. SCA is different from a heart attack, which occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, prevention, complications, diagnosis and evaluation, treatment and management, and when to see a doctor for SCA.

Types of Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)

There are several types of SCA, including:

1. Ventricular Fibrillation (VF): A type of SCA where the heart beats in a rapid and disorganized manner.
2. Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (PVT): A type of SCA where the heart beats in a rapid and organized manner.
3. Asystole: A type of SCA where the heart beats very slowly or not at all.

Causes of Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)

The causes of SCA can be divided into two categories: underlying conditions and triggering factors.

Underlying Conditions

1. Coronary Artery Disease: A condition where the coronary arteries become narrowed or blocked.
2. Cardiomyopathy: A condition where the heart muscle becomes weakened.
3. Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC): A condition where the heart muscle becomes weakened and scarred.

Triggering Factors

1. Physical Activity: Engaging in physical activity that is too strenuous or prolonged.
2. Stress: Experiencing extreme stress or anxiety.
3. Electrolyte Imbalance: Having an imbalance of electrolytes in the blood.

Risk Factors of Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)

The following factors can increase the risk of developing SCA:

1. Family History: Having a family history of SCA or other cardiac conditions.
2. Age: Being older than 40 years.
3. Sex: Being male.
4. Obesity: Having a high body mass index (BMI).
5. Smoking: Smoking.

Symptoms of Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)

Preventions of Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)

The following steps can help prevent SCA:

1. Maintaining Good Health: Maintaining good overall health through regular exercise and a balanced diet.
2. Managing Underlying Conditions: Managing underlying conditions such as coronary artery disease or cardiomyopathy.
3. Avoiding Triggering Factors: Avoiding triggering factors such as physical activity that is too strenuous or prolonged.

Diagnosis of Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)

Diagnosing SCA typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.

Treatment for Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)

Treatment for SCA typically involves:

1. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): Performing CPR to restore blood flow to the brain and other vital organs.
2. Shocks to the Heart: Administering shocks to the heart using a device called an automated external defibrillator (AED).

When to seek medical attention ?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:

1. Sudden Loss of Consciousness
2. Cardiac Arrest
3. Respiratory Arrest.