Cardiac Arrest in Young People: A Growing Concern

Cardiac arrest is often associated with older adults, but in recent years, an alarming trend has emerged—cardiac arrest is increasingly affecting younger people. This sudden and life-threatening condition, which causes the heart to stop functioning properly, can strike without warning, leading to devastating consequences if immediate medical intervention is not provided.

In this blog, we will explore the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatments of cardiac arrest in young people, as well as why awareness of this issue is more crucial than ever.

What Is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively to the rest of the body, resulting in a complete loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness. This is not the same as a heart attack, which happens when blood flow to the heart is blocked. In a cardiac arrest, the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias. Without prompt intervention, cardiac arrest can lead to death within minutes.

Causes of Cardiac Arrest in Young People

While cardiac arrest is rare in younger individuals, certain conditions and risk factors can increase the likelihood of it occurring. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a genetic condition that causes the heart muscle to thicken abnormally. This can make it harder for the heart to pump blood and can lead to arrhythmias, which may trigger cardiac arrest. HCM is one of the leading causes of sudden cardiac arrest in athletes and young people.

2. Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC)

This genetic disorder affects the heart's muscle tissue, particularly in the right ventricle. Over time, healthy tissue is replaced with scar tissue, disrupting the heart’s electrical system and increasing the risk of arrhythmias and cardiac arrest.

3. Long QT Syndrome

Long QT syndrome is a heart rhythm disorder that can lead to fast, chaotic heartbeats. If untreated, these irregular rhythms can trigger fainting, seizures, or sudden cardiac arrest. It is often inherited but can also be caused by certain medications.

4. Commotio Cordis

Commotio cordis occurs when a sudden impact to the chest disrupts the heart's normal rhythm. Though rare, it is more common in young athletes, especially in contact sports like baseball, hockey, or football. This can lead to cardiac arrest even in otherwise healthy individuals.

5. Undiagnosed Heart Conditions

Sometimes, young people may have underlying heart conditions that go undetected until cardiac arrest occurs. These conditions might include congenital heart defects, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle), or coronary artery abnormalities.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Cardiac arrest often strikes suddenly, but there are warning signs that may appear beforehand. Recognizing these symptoms can make a life-saving difference:

Chest Pain or Discomfort: Especially if it's persistent and associated with physical activity.

Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing that cannot be explained by physical exertion.

Dizziness or Fainting: Unexplained fainting spells, especially during exercise, could signal a heart problem.

Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: A racing or fluttering heart could be a sign of arrhythmia.

Seizures: Cardiac arrest can sometimes be mistaken for a seizure due to the sudden loss of consciousness and jerking movements.

If any of these symptoms occur, particularly in combination, immediate medical evaluation is critical.

Preventing Cardiac Arrest in Young People

Though cardiac arrest can strike unexpectedly, there are steps that can help reduce the risk:

1. Regular Health Check-ups

Routine medical check-ups are essential, especially for young athletes. Screening for heart conditions with ECGs (electrocardiograms) and echocardiograms can identify underlying issues that may increase the risk of cardiac arrest.

2. Know Your Family History

Genetic factors play a significant role in many heart conditions that lead to cardiac arrest. If there is a family history of heart disease or sudden cardiac arrest, it’s important to undergo appropriate screening and share this information with your healthcare provider.

3. Avoid Performance-Enhancing Drugs

Certain stimulants and performance-enhancing drugs can increase the risk of arrhythmias and cardiac arrest. Avoiding these substances is crucial for heart health.

4. CPR and AED Training

Cardiac arrest is a time-sensitive medical emergency. Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) can save lives. It’s a good idea for schools, sports teams, and workplaces to offer CPR and AED training to be prepared in the event of an emergency.

What to Do in the Event of Cardiac Arrest

When cardiac arrest strikes, every second counts. Here’s what to do if you witness someone collapse and suspect cardiac arrest:

Call Emergency Services (911/112): Always call for professional medical help immediately.

Begin CPR: Push hard and fast on the center of the chest at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. CPR helps keep blood circulating to vital organs.

Use an AED: If available, use an automated external defibrillator. AEDs analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver a shock to restore normal function.

Early intervention can double or even triple the chances of survival, making it essential to act swiftly.

Treatment and Management

Survivors of cardiac arrest often require long-term management to prevent future episodes. This may include medications to regulate heart rhythm, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, the implantation of a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). These devices can detect and correct dangerous arrhythmias, reducing the risk of cardiac arrest.

Conclusion: Raising Awareness Is Key

Cardiac arrest in young people is a serious health concern that requires more awareness. With early detection, proper medical care, and education about emergency response, the risks can be mitigated. Knowing the signs and symptoms, undergoing regular screenings, and being prepared to act in an emergency can make all the difference.

Nirogya Hospital is committed to helping individuals and families understand the risks and take preventive steps toward a heart-healthy life. If you or a loved one are concerned about heart health, we encourage you to visit us for a comprehensive check-up and consultation with our experienced cardiologists.

Your Heart Matters—Don’t Wait!