By Stephanie Chilton -
Would you know what to do?
Imagine you’re going about your normal day, perhaps rushing off to work or meandering around the supermarket, and out of nowhere somebody falls to the ground unconscious and gasping for breath. It could even be your friend, colleague or loved one. Would you know what to do?
Today is Restart a Heart Day, part of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Awareness Month, both aiming to save lives and increase the current 10% survival rate for SCA.
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)?
According to the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation, “Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating.”
How to recognize sudden cardiac arrest
Recognizing sudden cardiac arrest is crucial for timely intervention. SCA often occurs without warning. Here are the key signs to look out for:
- sudden collapse
- loss of consciousness
- absence of normal breathing.
- Possible gasping or irregular breathing patterns
Unlike a heart attack, which may present with chest pain or discomfort, SCA is characterized by a sudden loss of heart function.
What to do if the worst happens
If someone suddenly falls and is unresponsive, immediate action is crucial. SCA can lead to death in minutes. The Call Push Shock movement promotes the following advice:
- Call - call 911 and follow the operators' instructions.
- Push - start CPR to triple the victim’s chance of survival (push hard and fast in the center of the chest; 100 to 120 compressions per minute).
- Shock - use an automated external defibrillator (AED), if available. These usually come with step-by-step audio-visual instructions.
Are you at risk?
SCA is a national public health crisis that affects 1000 people per day of all ages and backgrounds. However the chances of SCA increase with age, drug and alcohol use, and health conditions such as arrhythmia, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, or obesity. Sex, race, and family history also affect how likely you are to experience SCA.
Read these incredible stories of survival from the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation: https://www.sca-aware.org/survivor-stories
Is it preventable?
Heart-healthy habits can reduce your risk factors for SCA. Here are a few tips:
- Prioritize Physical Activity: Regular exercise can significantly improve cardiovascular health. Activities like walking, yoga, or swimming not only strengthen the heart but also help manage stress and improve mental well-being.
- Nourish Your Body: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports heart health. Reduce sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats.
- Manage Stress: Stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or counseling can help mitigate the impact of stress on your heart. Establishing a support network will help your emotional resilience.
- Regular Check-Ups: Don’t overlook regular health screenings. Routine check-ups can help catch potential issues early, making it easier to manage risk factors like high blood pressure or cholesterol.
- Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. Learning about heart health and understanding your own risk factors can empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
Revisit our blog post on the effects of cholesterol on your heart health for further tips: Everything You Need to Know About Cholesterol
Browse the Mature Allure podcast for more healthy lifestyle inspiration.
At Mature Allure we believe that the wisdom you’ve gained over the years is your greatest asset and should be shared with the world. If you have experienced Sudden Cardiac Arrest please share your story below.
