Sudden cardiac death (patient information)

For the WikiDoc page for this topic, click here

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Edzel Lorraine Co, D.M.D., M.D.

Overview

• Sudden cardiac death arises when the heart suddenly stops and not given prompt treatment. This happens because a problem occurs with the electrical system of the heart.

What are the symptoms of sudden cardiac death?

• Patients with sudden cardiac death can experience:
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty of breathing
  • Dizziness
  • Palpitations
  • Body malaise

What causes sudden cardiac death?

Some medical problems that could cause sudden cardiac death include:

• Thickening of the heart muscles
• Electrical conduction problem of the heart
• Lung problems
• Illegal use of drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or heroin
• Electrolyte problems

Who is at highest risk?

• Patients with ongoing heart problems are at high risk of experiencing sudden cardiac death.
• This include:
  • Heart attack
  • Thickening of the heart muscles
  • Clogging of the arteries of the heart
  • Problem with the electrical system of the heart
  • Irregular pumping of the heart