A sudden cardiac arrest stops the heart with no warning and can be caused by a number of reasons:
- Cardiac i.e. Heart related issues
- Lack of oxygen i.e. asphyxiation
- Electrocution
- Use of drugs
- Trauma
- Poisoning
- Natural end of life
Sudden Cardiac Arrest UK was started to cater for those who experience an unexpected and sudden cardiac arrest which is cardiac in origin.
In the UK you will often see a cardiac arrest referred to as being either “in hospital” or “out of hospital”. The addition of the location to the name is probably due to the nature of the event in that an “in hospital” one is more likely to be treated immediately than an “out of hospital” event where lay people are likely to be the first on the scene.
Sudden Cardiac Arrests are often confused with a heart attack and you can learn about the differences here.
What causes sudden cardiac arrest?
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is caused by dangerous arrhythmias, or abnormal heart rhythms, that originate in the ventricles (lower chambers) of the heart. These arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, can cause the heart to stop pumping blood effectively.
There are many cardiac causes for a sudden cardiac arrest and you can read about some of them here.
In children, an SCA can occur after respiratory arrest (when breathing has stopped) due to choking, drowning, or other respiratory issues.
Sometimes the underlying cause of an SCA is unknown, this is known as being idiopathic.
What can trigger a sudden cardiac arrest?
Certain activities or behaviours can trigger a sudden cardiac arrest, especially in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or other risk factors. Possible triggers include:
- Heavy alcohol consumption or binge drinking
- Strenuous physical exertion or physical stress, particularly in individuals who do not exercise regularly
- Recent use of recreational drugs, such as cocaine, amphetamines, or marijuana
- Consuming excessive amounts of caffeine, especially in individuals who are not regular coffee drinkers
- Severe emotional stress in the prior month
- Influenza (flu) infection in the prior month
What raises the risk of sudden cardiac arrest?
Many underlying health conditions can increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Addressing modifiable risk factors and managing existing conditions can help reduce the risk. Some key risk factors include:
Heart problems:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD): The build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries can partially or completely block blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of SCA.
- Arrhythmias: Conditions like atrial fibrillation and long QT syndrome can lead to dangerous arrhythmias that cause SCA.
- Complications of CAD: Heart attacks, angina, and coronary artery spasms can trigger SCA.
- Structural heart problems: Congenital heart defects, cardiomyopathies, and heart valve diseases can damage the heart and increase the risk of SCA.
- Heart inflammation: Infections or other medical conditions that cause inflammation of the heart can raise the risk of SCA.
- Heart failure: Complications of heart failure can lead to SCA.
Age: The risk of SCA increases with age, although it can occur at any age.
Sex: SCA is more common in men than women, but a woman’s risk increases after menopause.
Race and ethnicity: Certain races and ethnicities may have a higher risk of SCA compared to other ethnic groups.
Family history: Genetic conditions that affect the heart’s electrical system, such as arrhythmias or conduction disorders, can run in families and increase the risk of SCA.
Other medical conditions: Respiratory arrest, diabetes, electrolyte imbalances, and certain medications can also raise the risk of SCA.
Can sudden cardiac arrest be prevented?
While not all cases of an SCA can be prevented, maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle can greatly reduce the risk of developing underlying conditions that increase the risk of an SCA. This includes:
- Not smoking or quitting smoking
- Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Managing conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Avoiding recreational drug use
Work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses your individual risk factors and lifestyle habits. Early detection and management of heart conditions are crucial in preventing SCA.
If you or a loved one is at high risk for SCA, discuss the potential benefits of having an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) with your healthcare provider. An ICD can detect and correct dangerous arrhythmias, potentially preventing an SCA.
Remember, sudden cardiac arrest is a medical emergency. Learning CPR and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) can greatly improve the chances of survival for someone experiencing SCA.