Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a life-threatening medical emergency that can happen to anyone, even those who are seemingly healthy and without known pre-existing heart conditions.

It is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating, leading to death within minutes if left untreated.

What Causes Sudden Cardiac Death?

Most cases of SCD are caused by a sudden disruption of electrical activity in the heart, leading to an abnormal heart rhythm called ventricular fibrillation.

This irregular heartbeat causes the heart to stop pumping blood efficiently, leading to a sudden loss of consciousness and death within minutes if not treated promptly.

Some of the common causes of SCD include:.

• Heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, which can lead to a heart attack
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a condition that causes thickening of the heart muscle
• Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia, a rare genetic condition that affects the heart muscle
• Long QT syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects the heart’s electrical activity
• Abuse of drugs such as cocaine, amphetamines, and anabolic steroids
• Electrocution or lightning strikes

Who Is at Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death?

Sudden cardiac death can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or fitness level. However, some people are at a higher risk of experiencing SCD, including:.

• People with known heart disease, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, or heart valve problems
• People with a family history of SCD or heart disease
• Athletes who engage in intense physical activity, especially if they have an underlying heart condition
• People who abuse drugs or alcohol
• People who have had previous episodes of abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation

What Are the Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Death?

Unlike a heart attack, which can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms, SCD often occurs without warning and without any symptoms.

In some cases, a person may experience warning signs such as palpitations, dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath before SCD occurs.

How Is Sudden Cardiac Death Diagnosed?

SCD is often diagnosed after a person has already died.

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If a person experiences symptoms such as palpitations or fainting, a doctor may order tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or a stress test to evaluate the heart’s electrical activity and function. These tests can help identify any underlying heart conditions that may increase the risk of SCD.

How Is Sudden Cardiac Death Treated?

Immediate treatment is crucial in the case of SCD.

If a person collapses and is unresponsive, bystanders should call 911 or their local emergency services immediately and start performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) until medical professionals arrive. In some cases, an automated external defibrillator (AED) may be used to shock the heart back into a normal rhythm.

After surviving SCD, a person may require further treatment to prevent future episodes.

This may include medications such as beta-blockers, which can help regulate the heart’s electrical activity, or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), which can detect and deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm if necessary.

How Can Sudden Cardiac Death Be Prevented?

Prevention measures for SCD largely depend on identifying and treating any underlying heart conditions that increase the risk of SCD. Regular check-ups with a doctor can help identify any risk factors or symptoms that may require further evaluation.

Other prevention measures include:.

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and managing stress
• Avoiding substance abuse, including drugs, alcohol, and tobacco
• Reporting any symptoms such as palpitations, fainting, or shortness of breath to a doctor
• Getting screened for heart conditions, especially if there is a family history of heart disease or SCD

The Bottom Line

Sudden cardiac death is a life-threatening condition that can happen to anyone, although certain factors can increase the risk. Recognizing the warning signs and seeking prompt medical attention is crucial in the case of SCD.

Preventing SCD largely depends on identifying and treating any underlying heart conditions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.