Attention: it is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month!

What is it?

October is the month that brings awareness to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA is a condition in which the heart stops beating, just like that. It could be fatal if not treated immediately.

Causes:

1. This condition is caused by ventricular fibrillation (v-fib). During V-fib, the ventricles in the heart don't beat normally, Instead, they quiver rapidly and sporadically. When this occurs, the blood flow to the body is cut off.

2. The heart's electrical system also plays a role in SCA. If the rate of the heart's electrical signals becomes very slow and stops, or if the heart muscle doesn't respond to the heart's electrical signals, cardiac arrest is quickly followed.

Certain diseases and conditions can cause the electrical problems that lead to SCA. Examples include ischemic heart disease, also called coronary heart disease or coronary artery disease; severe physical stress; certain inherited disorders; and structural changes in the heart.

Risk factors:

• Age

• Gender; men are more likely to experience SCA

• A personal history of arrhythmias

• Drug or alcohol abuse

• Heart attack

Symptoms:

Normally, the first sign of sudden cardiac arrest is a loss of consciousness. Also, no heartbeat (or pulse) can be felt.

Now that you know more about the matter, spread your knowledge, and empower people with this critical information. SCA could happen to anyone, but knowing about it could help save lives.

That's it for today, stay safe, and stay healthy.

Until next time!

sources: nhlbi.nih.gov