Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Young Adults

September 21, 2021 | 2 minutes read time

An unexpected and abrupt stop of heart function causing collapse and loss of consciousness is termed sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). If not treated immediately, and we are talking within 6-10 minutes, using CPR, and calling 911 for help, SCA leads to death in 100% of cases.

Seemingly healthy young adults can experience SCA even without obvious medical reasons. However, symptoms may show up in some people, including fainting, chest pain, and shortness of breath, suggests the best cardiologist in Noida.

Let’s have a look:

• • Arrhythmias: Undiagnosed genetic conditions may disrupt the electrical impulses of the heart even if there is no structural problem. For instance, the Long QT syndrome can lead to a chaotic heart rhythm. In arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD), scar tissue replaces the heart’s muscle tissue (a genetic condition). All these are risk factors for SCA, explains the best cardiologist in Ghaziabad.


• • Coronary artery abnormalities : If the coronary arteries are not connected to the heart the way they should (a structural defect), it can reduce the flow of blood to the heart during exercise or intense physical activities. This may lead to sudden cardiac arrest. People do not notice the symptoms of coronary artery abnormalities until they are older, says the best cardiologist in Noida.


• • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: Often undiagnosed and usually inherited, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a common reason why young adults may face SCA. In this condition, the ventricles (lower chambers of the heart) thicken causing abnormal rhythm – especially while exercising.


• • Commotio Cordis: A blow to the chest with sports equipment such as baseball, lacrosse, or ice hockey directly over the heart may cause SCA.


• • Myocarditis: Triggered by viral, fungal, bacterial, or parasite infections, myocarditis causes heart walls to inflame. Certain viruses like enterovirus enter the heart, it can lead to a sudden cardiac arrest.


• • Long QT syndrome A genetic disorder in ECG may cause SCA

Not all causes of SCA in young adults have been identified. Sudden cardiac arrest is relatively common in young athletes but people not into sports may get affected as well. It’s important to be aware of these causes to minimize the probability of getting SCA, advises the best cardiologist in Ghaziabad.

Apart from that, it’s important to know your family history, any SCA amongst family and ensure regular wellness visits to the hospital.

About Dr. Vanita

A pioneer electrophysiologist in India, Dr. Vanita has treated numerous arrhythmia patients over the years. Sudden cardiac arrests are rare in adults but they can happen, especially if you check multiple risk factors explained above.

By receiving timely treatment from one of the best cardiologists in Noida, you can significantly lower the probability of SCA. Dr. Vanita has more than two decades of experience in electrophysiology and has served as director and senior consultant in renowned hospitals of Delhi NCR.

If you wish to schedule an appointment, call +91 98738 79994 or drop an email at doctorvanitaaroa@gmail.com. Alternatively, you can head over to her website and fill this form .