Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Young Adults: What You Need to Know?

When the heart stops pumping blood through the body suddenly, this is referred to as cardiac arrest. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the medical term for whenever the heart unexpectedly stops beating. Breathing has stopped. Unconsciousness overtakes the victim. Absent prompt medical intervention, sudden cardiac arrest may be fatal.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and heart shocks from an automated external defibrillator (AED) are the emergency treatments for sudden cardiac arrest. Survival is achievable if medical care is administered quickly and effectively.

According to the best cardiac surgeon in Kolkata when the blood flow to the heart is suddenly interrupted, seizures happen. A blockage is not the cause of sudden cardiac arrest. However, a shift in the heart's electrical activity might result in sudden cardiac arrest if a heart attack brings it on.

What causes young persons to experience sudden cardiac arrest?

There are numerous potential causes of sudden cardiac arrest in adolescents and young adults, some of which are unknown.

1. Cardiomyopathy caused by hypertrophy:

According to the best cardiac surgeon in Kolkata, most young patients with SCA have a form of cardiovascular disease that is typically hereditary and frequently misdiagnosed as something else. The ventricles, the lowest chambers of the heart, develop a thickening of their muscle cells. 

Especially during physical activity, this might lead to an irregular heartbeat. Possible contributors include other forms of pediatric cardiomyopathy.

2. Abnormalities of the coronary arteries:

In those with coronary artery connection abnormalities, the inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle during activity can result in cardiac arrest. Coronary artery anomalies are typically present from birth, yet symptoms may not manifest in young people until adulthood.

3. Myocarditis:

Myocarditis is inflammation of the heart's walls typically brought on by an infection. An enterovirus infection of the heart muscle most frequently causes myocarditis in children. Infections with bacteria, fungi, parasites, and adverse reactions to some drugs can potentially trigger this condition.

4. Syndrome of Marfan:

Aortic ruptures are a potential complication of this connective tissue disorder. Those born with this syndrome often have abnormally long limbs and height but may not realize they have it.

Is it possible to aid in preventing cardiac arrest?

Families and communities can take measures to reduce the likelihood of a young person dying from sudden cardiac arrest.

1. Preventative care, including checkups and sports physicals:

Regular checkups with the best cardiologist in Kolkata are essential for the health of every kid. SCA risk factors can be better pinpointed during these checkups thanks to the opportunity for a thorough physical examination and medical history. 

Because even gym classes and recreational activities can and should involve plenty of exercises, pre-participation tests are vital even if a child is not active in organized sports. Patients and parents can use A simple screening tool with their primary care physician to evaluate if they need a specialist referral.

2. Get to Know Your Ancestry:

Collect and communicate with your child's pediatrician information about the cardiovascular health of your immediate family members (including grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and siblings). This can assist in framing inquiries at the best cardiologist in Kolkata for checkups and sports physicals.

3. Providing AEDs and CPR Instruction to Local Communities:

The AAP backs providing CPR and other life-support training to students and faculty at the appropriate ages. It also stresses the importance of putting Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) close to gyms and practice fields. AEDs can rapidly administer an electrical shock in the event of a cardiac arrest, restoring a normal heart rhythm.

Conclusion:

Even seemingly healthy young people, especially those who engage in team sports, are at risk for sudden cardiac arrest and death. Despite its rarity, sudden cardiac death remains the primary cause of death among young athletes worldwide, prompting some countries and sports teams to implement routine screening for heart disease.

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