Sudden cardiac arrest is a life-threatening condition characterized by the sudden cessation of the heart’s normal rhythm
Recognizing the warning signs 24 hours before a sudden cardiac arrest could potentially save lives by enabling early intervention, a study conducted by researchers from the Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai Health System has found.
The findings were published in the journal Lancet Digital Health.
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Sudden cardiac arrest: A lethal condition
Sudden cardiac arrest is a life-threatening condition characterized by the sudden cessation of the heart’s normal rhythm. This interruption prevents the heart from effectively pumping blood throughout the body. Unlike a heart attack, where blood flow is blocked by an artery obstruction, sudden cardiac arrest occurs due to abnormal electrical activity in the heart.
The symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, excessive sweating, and seizure-like activity.
Gender differences in symptoms
The study highlighted differences in warning symptoms between men and women. For women, shortness of breath emerged as the most prominent pre-cardiac arrest symptom, while men often experienced chest pain as a precursor.
Dr Sumeet Chugh, lead author of the study and a cardiac electrophysiologist, stressed the significance of considering sex differences in medical research. He said that existing research suggests varied mechanisms and factors contributing to sudden cardiac arrest between men and women. For instance, men are more likely to experience sudden cardiac arrest, with around two-thirds of cases occurring in males. Women, on the other hand, tend to experience this condition at a later age compared to men.
Implications and future research
Recognizing the distinctive symptoms experienced by individuals before sudden cardiac arrest could play a vital role in improving survival rates. Timely intervention, including early contact with emergency services, has the potential to save lives. As part of future research, the team plans to explore how integrating the patient’s clinical profile and biometric measures with warning symptoms could enhance the prediction of impending cardiac arrest.
Dr Jennifer Wong, a cardiologist at MemorialCare Heart and Vascular Institute, said that identifying predictors for sudden cardiac arrest could enable doctors to implement preventative measures and treatments. This proactive approach might involve interventions such as opening blocked arteries or stabilizing coronary plaque with medication.
Study methodology and key findings
The researchers analyzed data from two community-based studies, the Prediction of Sudden Death in Multi-Ethnic Communities (PRESTO) Study in Ventura County, CA, and the Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study (SUDS) in Portland, OR. Their analysis revealed that among individuals who experienced sudden cardiac arrest and were witnessed by bystanders or medical professionals, 50% had exhibited telltale symptoms 24 hours before the event.
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