Sudden Cardiac Arrest: Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) usually causes death if it is not treated within minutes. Some of the causes of sudden cardiac death include ventricular fibrillation, medication or drug abuse/overdose, heart attack, physical stress, inherited disorders, and changes in the structure of the heart. Automatic external defibrillator (AED), if available is the best immediate treatment for sudden cardiac arrest.
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Heart Rhythm Disorders
Arrhythmias or heart rhythm disorders are conditions that causes changes in the normal heartbeat. There are numerous types of arrhythmias, for example, supraventricular tachycardia, sinus sick syndrome, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and ventricular fibrillation. Signs and symptoms of an arrhythmia may include: Chest pain or discomfort Shortness of breath Palpitations Racing heart sensation Treatment for arrhythmias depend upon the cause. -
Automated External Defibrillators (AED)
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are used when a person has had a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest. It is a machine that instructs the user through the steps to defibrillate the victim. As more and more AEDs are placed in public places, more lives are saved from sudden cardiac arrest. -
Drug Dependence & Abuse
Drug dependence is the physical need for a certain substance. Drug abuse and dependence comprise a huge public health problem with no easy treatment available. -
Drug Overdose
Overdoses of drugs or chemicals can be either accidental or intentional. Drug overdoses occur when a person takes more than the medically recommended dose. Overdose is often a cause of death, coma, or other injury with heroin and other drugs commonly abused. -
Heart Attack
A heart attack is an interruption in blood flow to the heart muscle. Arterial plaque rupture is often the cause of a heart attack. Symptoms of a heart attack may include chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, and nausea. Emergency heart catheterization and thrombolytic therapy may be used to treat a heart attack.
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Sudden Cardiac Arrest Topic Guide – Related Topics
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