See What Happens During a Sudden Cardiac Arrest | Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Arrest | Prevention Tip

In this video understand how a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) happens. What is a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA)? Sudden Cardiac Arrest is a sudden loss of all heart activity due to an irregular heart rhythm. When that happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. If it is not treated, SCA usually causes death within minutes. Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest The heart has an electrical system that controls the rate and rhythm of the heartbeat Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) can happen when the heart's electrical system is not working right and causes irregular heartbeats Irregular heartbeats are called arrhythmias They may cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or with an irregular rhythm Certain diseases and conditions can cause the electrical problems that lead to SCA. They include: Ventricular fibrillation, a type of arrhythmia where the ventricles beat very fast and very irregularly Coronary artery disease (CAD) is often caused by the buildup of plaque, a waxy substance, inside the lining of larger coronary arteries. The plaque blocks the blood flow to the heart Cardiomyopathy Congenital heart defect Heart valve disease Intense physical activity High levels of potassium and magnesium Major blood loss Severe lack of oxygen Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Arrest Usually, the first sign of SCA is loss of consciousness (fainting) Other symptoms include A racing heartbeat Dizziness or light-headedness Chest pain Shortness of breath Nausea, or vomiting Prevention Tips for Sudden Cardiac Arrest Eat healthy Avoid smoking Control blood pressure and cholesterol Reduce alcohol intake Lose weight, if overweight Get regular checkups Emergency treatment options include Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) Automated external defibrillator (AED)