Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a sudden, unexpected death caused by loss of heart function (sudden cardiac arrest). The condition can affect anyone, including people who appear healthy and have no known heart disease or risk factors.

While SCD is often confused with heart attack, the two conditions are quite different. A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, while SCD happens when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing it to stop beating.

Causes of Sudden Cardiac Death

Sudden cardiac death can happen for a variety of reasons, including:.

Heart abnormalities: Certain heart conditions, such as an enlarged heart, can increase the risk of SCD
Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms, such as ventricular fibrillation, can lead to SCD
Drug use: Some drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can trigger SCD in people who are otherwise healthy
Structural abnormalities: Abnormalities in the structure of the heart or blood vessels can increase the risk of SCD
Inherited conditions: Certain genetic conditions, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, can increase the risk of SCD in young people

Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Death

Unlike a heart attack, which can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms, sudden cardiac death often occurs without warning. In fact, many people who experience SCD have no previous symptoms of heart disease.

However, some studies have suggested that there are certain warning signs that may precede a sudden cardiac event, such as:.

Chest pain or discomfort
Fainting or dizziness
Palpitations or rapid heart rate
Shortness of breath
Unexplained fatigue or weakness

It’s important to remember, however, that sudden cardiac death can happen without any warning signs or symptoms.

Risk Factors for Sudden Cardiac Death

While sudden cardiac death can happen to anyone, there are certain factors that can increase the risk of experiencing the condition. These risk factors include:.

A history of heart disease or heart attack
A family history of SCD or heart disease
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Smoking
Drug use
Obesity

If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk of experiencing SCD.

Diagnosis of Sudden Cardiac Death

Diagnosing sudden cardiac death is often difficult, as the event typically happens suddenly and without warning. However, in some cases, there may be warning signs or symptoms that can signal an increased risk of SCD.

Your doctor will typically begin the diagnostic process by reviewing your medical history, conducting a physical exam, and performing diagnostic tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG) or a stress test. In some cases, your doctor may also order an echocardiogram or other imaging tests to get a better look at your heart and blood vessels.

Treatment for Sudden Cardiac Death

In the event of sudden cardiac death, immediate treatment is essential to prevent permanent damage or death. The most effective treatment for SCD is defibrillation, which involves using an electrical shock to restore normal heart rhythm.

Defibrillation can be performed using an automated external defibrillator (AED), which is available in many public places, or by paramedics or other trained professionals. In some cases, antiarrhythmic medications may also be used to help restore normal heart rhythm.

For people who are at risk of experiencing sudden cardiac death, treatment may involve lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, losing weight, and controlling high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death

Preventing sudden cardiac death involves reducing your risk factors and making lifestyle changes that promote heart health. Some tips for preventing SCD include:.

Getting regular exercise
Eating a heart-healthy diet
Quitting smoking
Losing weight if you’re overweight or obese
Treating high blood pressure or high cholesterol
Avoiding drug use
Managing stress
Getting regular check-ups with your doctor

If you have a family history of sudden cardiac death or heart disease, or if you have any other risk factors for the condition, it’s important to talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk and prevent SCD.