Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a global health problem. It includes any disorder of the heart and blood vessels that supply the heart, brain, and other body parts with oxygen. This group of disorders includes coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, rheumatic heart disease, and other conditions. It is a significant cause of death and disability worldwide, accounting for about 32% of deaths yearly. CVD is often a slow and progressive disease but can also strike suddenly. The latter is known as sudden cardiac arrest.
The sudden loss of heart activity is a medical emergency that can lead to death without immediate treatment. It occurs when the electrical disturbances in your heart generally control your heart rhythm. These can be caused by physical stress or hereditary disorders but can also happen without apparent cause. You may experience severe chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting, and your heart stops beating, leaving you unconscious.
A heart attack is the most common reason for cardiac arrest, but almost any known heart condition can increase your risk of sudden cardiac arrest. A heart attack happens when you have a blockage in one of the coronary arteries that supplies oxygen to the heart. A blood clot, atherosclerosis, or fat deposits in the artery walls can cause this. The lack of oxygen-rich blood in the heart causes the tissue to die.
A sudden cardiac arrest can occur if the blockage in the artery isn’t removed quickly enough or if you have a heart problem that affects how the heart beats. This can include heart defects you’re born with or develop as an adult, such as prolonged QT or Brugada syndrome. It can also happen if you have a condition that causes your heart to beat too fast, such as arrhythmias or atrial fibrillation.
Heart disease can usually be diagnosed with a physical exam and lab tests. Your healthcare provider will measure the amount of cholesterol and other fats in your blood, check your blood pressure, and look for signs of blood clots. Your doctor will also ask questions about your symptoms and family history of heart disease. Follow your healthcare provider’s advice and keep up with regular appointments. This will help your provider detect any heart problems before they get serious. In addition, you can help reduce your risk of a heart attack by exercising regularly, eating healthy foods, and not smoking.
