When the heart stops beating abruptly, it can cause sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), a potentially fatal condition. This emergency can occur at any time and needs to be treated right once to avoid death. Renowned cardiologist and electrophysiologist Dr. Nityanand Tripathi provides information on the causes of abrupt cardiac arrest and successful treatment options.
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
The term “sudden cardiac arrest” describes the sudden loss of heart function caused by the abrupt halt of the heart’s regular electrical activity. It differs from a heart attack, in which the heart may still be partially functional despite the blockage of blood flow. When SCA occurs, the electrical system of the heart malfunctions, frequently resulting in an arrhythmia or irregular pulse that stops the heart from efficiently pumping blood.
Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Sudden cardiac arrest can have a number of reasons, many of which are connected to underlying cardiac disorders. In order to properly prevent and treat the illness, Dr. Nityanand Tripathi stresses the significance of comprehending these factors. Among the frequent reasons are:
1. CAD, or coronary artery disease: CAD, one of the main causes of SCA, is brought on by plaque accumulation that narrows or blocks the coronary arteries. Arrhythmias and abrupt cardiac arrest may result from this disturbance of the heart’s electrical circuitry.
2. Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction): When blood flow to a portion of the heart muscle is cut off, a heart attack takes place. Unusual heart rhythms brought on by this injury have the potential to cause sudden cardiac arrest.
Arrhythmias: Sudden cardiac arrest is frequently caused directly by abnormal heart rhythms, such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. These arrhythmias make the heart beat irregularly, which hinders its ability to pump blood efficiently.
Congenital Heart Conditions: A person’s risk of sudden cardiac arrest is increased if they are born with structural or electrical abnormalities in their heart. Life-threatening arrhythmias can result from conditions such as long QT syndrome, a disturbance of the electrical activity of the heart, or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a thickening of the heart muscle.
Cardiomyopathy: This condition affects the heart muscle and can result in an enlarged and weak heart. Arrhythmias and abrupt cardiac arrest may result from this disease.
Electrolyte imbalances: The electrical circuitry of the heart can be disrupted by imbalances in essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which can result in potentially fatal arrhythmias and abrupt cardiac arrest.
Drug Use: A number of substances, such as illicit substances like cocaine or amphetamine drugs, can result in arrhythmias that raise the risk of SCA. Another contributing cause may be the overuse of prescription medications, such as antiarrhythmics.
Additional Factors: Sudden cardiac arrest can also be brought on by physical stress, such as extreme effort, especially in people who already have heart issues. An arrhythmia may also result from emotional stress, trauma, or even a severe emotional shock.
Treatment of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
- Immediate Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
- The first and most crucial step in treating SCA is to perform CPR.
- Chest Compressions: Push hard and fast in the center of the chest, allowing the chest to rise completely between compressions. Aim for a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
2. Defibrillation with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
- Defibrillation is often necessary to restore a normal heart rhythm, especially if the cause of SCA is an arrhythmia like ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia.
3. Advanced Medical Care
- After performing CPR and defibrillation, the person must receive advanced care in a medical facility.
- Post-Resuscitation Care: Once the patient is stabilized, the focus shifts to ensuring the heart and body are functioning properly.
4. Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)
- For patients at high risk of recurrent SCA, an ICD may be implanted. This device continuously monitors the heart’s rhythm and can deliver shocks if it detects life-threatening arrhythmias. It’s a preventative measure for those who have had a prior cardiac arrest or are at significant risk of arrhythmias.
5. Medications
- Drugs such as antiarrhythmic medications may be prescribed to help control irregular heart rhythms. Additionally, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and other heart-related medications can be used to manage underlying heart conditions like heart failure or coronary artery disease.
Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Arrest –
To maintain good heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, it is essential to adopt certain lifestyle changes and undergo regular screenings. Start by controlling blood pressure, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, controlling blood sugar, and keeping a healthy weight. Incorporating regular exercise, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and following a heart-healthy diet are key lifestyle adjustments that can make a significant difference. Regular check-ups and screenings are equally important; monitoring heart health through tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) and echocardiogram helps in early detection of any issues. Additionally, genetic testing and risk assessment can provide insights into hereditary factors. Managing stress effectively also plays a crucial role in supporting overall heart health. To Know more about sudden cardiac arrest and how to prevent visit https://www.drnityanandtripathi.com
