Sudden Cardiac Death: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD), an abrupt and unexpected loss of life within an hour of symptom onset, is a serious concern. It can strike suddenly, even in individuals with seemingly healthy hearts. Timely diagnosis and understanding of its causes are crucial.
SCD can be caused by various factors. Existing heart diseases like coronary artery disease (CAD), arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), and valvular diseases can lead to SCD. Even macroscopically normal hearts may harbor hidden pathological substrates, such as conduction system diseases and potential arrhythmogenic conditions.
Genetic conditions play a significant role. Inherited conditions like Wolff Parkinson White syndrome, long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), Marfan syndrome, and ARVC are closely linked to SCD. These conditions can cause structural abnormalities or disrupt the heart's electrical system.
SCD symptoms can range from none to severe, including chest tightness, throat pain, dizziness, fainting, and anxiety. Timely diagnosis may require a thorough clinical history, ECG, Holter monitoring, and even coronary angiography.
Men are disproportionately affected, with about twice as many German men dying from heart-related causes as women, largely due to differences in risk factors and age.
SCD survivors remain at high risk for recurrent events. Understanding and managing risk factors, such as atherosclerosis, congenital heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, smoking, obesity, and kidney disease, is vital. Early diagnosis and intervention can save lives, even in rare cases where SCD strikes individuals with normal heart structures.
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