About-Cardio
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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Causes of Cardiac Arrest in Young Adults
Introduction
Cardiac arrest is a sudden and unexpected loss of heart function, leading to an immediate cessation of blood flow to vital organs. While commonly associated with older adults, it can also occur in young, seemingly healthy individuals. Understanding the causes can help in identifying at-risk individuals and taking preventive measures.
Common Causes
1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- A genetic condition where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick.
- Can lead to arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest.
- Often diagnosed in athletes.
2. Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC)
- A rare genetic disorder affecting the heart’s muscle structure.
- Causes arrhythmias, which may lead to sudden cardiac death.
3. Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) and Other Channelopathies
- Genetic disorders that affect the electrical activity of the heart.
- Increase the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias.
4. Commotio Cordis
- A sudden cardiac arrest caused by a blunt impact to the chest.
- Seen in contact sports like baseball, hockey, or football.
5. Myocarditis
- Inflammation of the heart muscle, often due to viral infections.
- Can cause fatal arrhythmias, especially in young adults.
6. Coronary Artery Anomalies
- Congenital abnormalities in coronary artery anatomy.
- Can lead to restricted blood flow and increased risk of sudden cardiac events.
7. Substance Abuse
- Cocaine, stimulants, and anabolic steroids increase the risk of arrhythmias.
- Energy drinks and high-dose caffeine consumption have also been associated with sudden cardiac arrest.
8. Brugada Syndrome
- A rare genetic condition affecting the heart’s electrical system.
- Can lead to dangerous arrhythmias, particularly during sleep.
Prevention and Screening
- Regular cardiac screening for athletes and individuals with a family history of heart disease.
- Genetic testing for individuals with a family history of sudden cardiac death.
- Avoiding stimulant drugs and excessive caffeine.
- Wearing protective gear during contact sports to prevent commotio cordis.
- Awareness of symptoms such as fainting, palpitations, or chest pain.
Conclusion
While sudden cardiac arrest in young adults is rare, it is crucial to recognize high-risk factors. Preventive measures, early diagnosis, and immediate response with CPR and defibrillation can significantly improve survival rates.
Source recommendations
1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Sudden Cardiac Arrest
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiac-arrest
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks/heart-attack-or-sudden-cardiac-arrest-how-are-they-different
- https://cpr.heart.org/en/resources/cpr-facts-and-stats
- https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/warning-signs-of-a-heart-attack
2. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines on Sudden Cardiac Death
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines/Ventricular-Arrhythmias-and-the-Prevention-of-Sudden-Cardiac-Death
- https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/43/40/3997/6675633
- https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000000549
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36017572/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405500X22010945
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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We monitor all innovations and changes in the field of cardiac disease treatment on a daily basis.
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Every 3-5 years, half of the scientific approaches to treatment in the field of cardiology are reviewed as a result of specialized scientific discoveries. With us, you don't have to wait these years to learn about the best ways to treat you and your loved ones.