According to the American Heart Association, sudden cardiac arrest (also referred to as SCA or sudden cardiac death) is a leading cause of death with over 320,000 cases annually in the US.
SCA is when the heart unexpectedly stops beating. It is the result of an electrical disturbance in the heart, unlike a heart attack, which is a malfunction of the heart muscle.
Are there potential warning signs of SCA?
When SCA occurs, the symptoms are immediate and marked by a sudden loss of consciousness. In some cases, though, the following symptoms may be observable prior to the collapse:
- Heart palpitations
- Unexplained wheezing
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- See more here
How can you prevent SCA?
The most vital preventative measure for SCA is getting a sudden death screening on a regular basis.
