Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Sudden Cardiac Arrest occurs when the coronary arteries harden or have fatty deposits on the walls, resulting in the narrowing of these arteries. This reduces the flow of blood, leading to a condition where the heart muscle is deprived of blood. If the artery narrows to the point of blockage, it can cause the heart muscle to die.
Risk Factors and Causes
- High blood pressure and high blood lipid levels
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Stress
- Lack of regular exercise
- Men over 40 years of age, or women over 50 years of age, or postmenopausal age
- Individuals with a family history of heart disease
Common Symptoms
- Palpitations
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sweating
- Dizziness
Warning Signs
Warning signs include distinctive chest pain
- Pain in the center of the chest, slightly towards the pit of the stomach
- A sensation of tightness, heaviness, sometimes radiating to the left collarbone, left shoulder, elbow, or the inside of the left arm, left jaw or neck
- In some cases, symptoms include lightheadedness, palpitations, abnormal heart rate, clammy sweat, and fainting
Preventionof Sudden Cardiac Arrest
To prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrest and palpitations, follow these guidelines:- Keep blood pressure and diabetes under control within normal limits
- Control body weight to avoid obesity, as obese individuals require the heart to work harder than normal
- Ensure adequate rest
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid stress
- Avoid fatty foods
- Quit smoking, as nicotine and other substances are harmful to the inner lining of blood vessels, causing the coronary arteries to constrict, reducing the amount of blood supplied to the heart muscle
However, if you experience recurring episodes of chest pain, you should consult a doctor immediately.
