Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a critical health issue that affects millions of people worldwide every year. It is one of the leading causes of death globally, and women are not immune to its effects.

In fact, women face several unique risk factors that increase their chances of experiencing SCA.

Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest

SCA results from an unexpected and abrupt interruption in the heart’s ability to pump blood to vital organs and tissues in the body. The suddenness of this condition means that death can occur within minutes if it is not treated immediately.

SCA typically happens due to an abnormal electrical signal in the heart, leading to an irregular, rapid heartbeat, called ventricular fibrillation (VF).

VF stops blood from flowing to the brain and other vital organs, ultimately leading to unconsciousness and death.

About Women and Sudden Cardiac Arrest

While SCA is more commonly associated with men, women are not spared from the condition’s impact. Women face several unique risk factors that increase their likelihood of experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, including:.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body goes through a lot of changes, including an increase in blood volume, heart rate, and cardiac output. These changes can lead to an increased risk of developing arrhythmias and SCA.

Mental Stress

Excessive stress and emotional shock can also trigger SCA, especially in women. Women tend to face more stress in their daily lives than men, making them more vulnerable to SCA caused by stress.

Menopause

Menopause brings about a significant shift in the hormonal balance of a woman’s body. As estrogen levels decrease, women become more susceptible to SCA.

Studies have shown that menopause increases the risk of developing SCA, and the risk continues to rise with age.

Autoimmune Disorders And SCA

Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus, increase the risk of SCA in women, as they can cause chronic inflammation that can damage the heart’s tissue and increase the risk of arrhythmias.

Sex Differences In SCA Symptoms

Symptoms of SCA vary among different populations and genders. Men and women experience different symptoms of SCA.

For example, some women may experience warning signs such as nausea, lightheadedness, or shortness of breath before a sudden cardiac arrest event. However, this may not be the case with men. Men are more likely to experience chest pain before an SCA event.

Preventing Sudden Cardiac Arrest In Women

Preventing SCA in women is crucial, given the unique risk factors they face. Several measures can help reduce the risk of sudden cardiac arrest, including:.

Healthy lifestyle habits

Healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and quitting smoking, can help reduce the risk of SCA.

Exercise can strengthen the heart and reduce the risk of developing arrhythmias, while a balanced diet helps keep cholesterol levels in check and maintain a healthy weight.

Managing stress levels

Stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, can help reduce the risks associated with high-stress levels.

Regular Heart Health Checkup

Regular health check-ups can help detect underlying heart conditions that increase the risk of SCA early. High blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol are among the leading risk factors for SCA that can be identified through routine check-ups.

Closing Thoughts

Sudden cardiac arrest is a serious condition that affects millions worldwide, and women face several unique risk factors that make them more vulnerable to SCA.

By initiating preventive measures such as healthy lifestyle habits, stress management techniques, and regular health check-ups, women can reduce their risk of SCA and protect their heart health.