Updated: 11/29/23
You may not realize it, but sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of mortality around the world—with more than 70,000 deaths occurring in the United States alone every year. Many conditions can lead to an SCA, from heart disease and other cardiovascular health issues to stroke or even drug overdoses. But with regular preventive measures such as exercising and a balanced diet plan you can lower your risk drastically. To cover all your bases, we have identified natural supplements that may help reduce your chances of ever suffering from an SCA while also offering support & management for those currently living with a condition related to it. These supplements could provide you just the extra edge needed when facing cardiac risks!
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
SCA occurs when the electrical system of the heart malfunctions, causing the heart to stop suddenly. As a result, blood flow to the brain and other organs gets disrupted, which can cause death or damage to vital organs if not treated quickly. In most cases, sudden cardiac arrest is triggered by a heart attack, arrhythmia, or other heart-related conditions. The symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest vary, but they usually include chest pain, shortness of breath, faintness, weakness, palpitations, and nausea. It is important to know that sudden cardiac arrest can occur suddenly, without any warning signs, and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
SCA can occur suddenly and unexpectedly, so it is vital to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing SCA. SCA prevention is all about maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, and keeping fit. Regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, and swimming, can improve heart health and reduce the risk of developing SCA. Additionally, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and controlling high blood pressure can also help reduce the risk of SCA.
In most cases, it affects patients age 35 and older. Patients with cardiovascular diseases may face an increased risk for cardiac arrest. However, according to research, about 66 percent of cases occur without any indications of heart disease. This condition is a medical emergency. It may not cause any warning signs or symptoms and the patient may lose their life within minutes.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest vs. Heart Attack
Sudden cardiac arrest and heart attack are both related to the heart, but they occur for different reasons. Heart attacks occur when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often by a blood clot. This prevents the heart muscles from getting the oxygen they need to function, which can cause permanent damage or even death. Sudden cardiac arrest, on the other hand, occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. This is usually caused by an electrical malfunction in the heart that prevents it from pumping blood properly.
It’s important to note that sudden cardiac arrest can occur as a result of a heart attack, but it can also occur in people who have no history of heart problems. In fact, sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the United States, with more than 350,000 people dying each year from the condition.
The symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest and heart attack can be similar, but there are some key differences to look out for. Symptoms of a heart attack can include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and nausea. Symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest, on the other hand, include sudden loss of consciousness, no pulse, and no breathing. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
During sudden cardiac arrest, there is a lack of blood flow to the brain, causing the patient to lose consciousness. This is the first sign and usually it is the only sign. Although it often happens without warning, the patient may experience some other symptoms before:
Chest Discomfort
One of the most common symptoms of SCA is chest discomfort. This can be mild or severe, and the sensation is often described as pressure, tightness, or a squeezing feeling in the chest. It can come and go, or it can be persistent and not relieved by rest or medication. If you experience any chest discomfort, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
Shortness of Breath
Another common symptom of SCA is shortness of breath. You may feel like you’re struggling to breathe or not getting enough air. This symptom can be accompanied by chest discomfort and may be a sign of a serious heart problem.
Fatigue
A feeling of prolonged tiredness or exhaustion, even after getting enough sleep and rest, can indicate SCA. Fatigue can be an early sign of many heart conditions, including SCA. If you experience chronic fatigue, don’t underestimate it and seek medical attention.
Nausea and Vomiting
Feeling nauseous or throwing up may not seem like a problem related to your heart, but it can be an early sign of a cardiac arrest. If the symptom persists or comes on suddenly, call a medical professional.
Palpitations
SCA can cause heart palpitations, which are rapid, irregular heartbeats. You may feel like your heart is skipping a beat or beating too hard or too fast. If this happens, seek medical attention promptly.
Cold Sweats
Sweating profusely or experiencing cold sweats, especially if you are not engaged in rigorous physical activity, can be an early sign of cardiac arrest. If you notice this symptom, call emergency services immediately.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
If your heart is not pumping enough blood, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded. This is because your brain is not getting enough oxygen. If you experience these symptoms, lie down and seek medical attention immediately.
Fainting
SCA can cause sudden fainting or loss of consciousness. This happens when your brain is not getting enough blood. If someone around you faints and is unresponsive, call for emergency medical services immediately.
What Causes Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
There are numerous other factors that may increase the risk for sudden cardiac arrest, both structural and nonstructural. Structural causes include arrhythmias, coronary artery disease and cardiomyopathy. Nonstructural causes include long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome and Marfan syndrome.
Heart Attack
The leading cause of sudden cardiac arrest is a heart attack. A heart attack occurs when the flow of blood to the heart has a block, depriving the heart muscle of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause damage to the heart muscle, leading to an arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) that can cause sudden cardiac arrest. Other causes of sudden cardiac arrest include cardiomyopathy (enlarged or weakened heart muscle), heart valve problems, and congenital heart defects.
Ventricular Fibrillation
The most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest is an abnormal heart rhythm called ventricular fibrillation, which occurs when the electrical signals that control the heart’s pumping action become chaotic and irregular. This can happen due to various underlying heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, heart failure, congenital heart defects, or cardiomyopathy.
Electrical Problem
Another cause of sudden cardiac arrest is an electrical problem in the heart. This can occur when the electrical signals that control the heart’s rhythm become disrupted, leading to an arrhythmia. Sudden cardiac arrest can also occur in patients who have pre-existing heart conditions, such as arrhythmia, heart failure, or coronary artery disease.
Genetics
Some people may have a genetic predisposition to sudden cardiac arrest due to inherited conditions, such as long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome, or arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia. These conditions can disrupt the heart’s electrical system and cause sudden death, especially in young people who seem to be in good health. That’s why it’s important to get screened for these conditions if you have a family history of sudden cardiac arrest or unexplained deaths in young relatives.
Lifestyle Factors
Certain factors can increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest, including a family history of the condition, age, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Additionally, sudden cardiac arrest can occur during physical activity, so it is important to discuss any potential cardiovascular risks before starting any exercise program.
High cholesterol levels, or hyperlipidemia, can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and increase the risk of heart disease and sudden cardiac arrest. Diabetes is another factor that can damage the blood vessels and nerves that control the heart, putting people with diabetes at a higher risk of cardiovascular events. Obesity is also linked to various risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance, which can all trigger arrhythmias and sudden cardiac arrest.
Smoking
Smoking is a major risk factor for sudden cardiac arrest, as it damages the blood vessels and can lead to atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. This can decrease the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart muscles, increasing the risk of heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest. High blood pressure, or hypertension, also puts a strain on the heart and can cause it to enlarge or weaken over time, making it more susceptible to arrhythmias.
How to Prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Stay Active
Exercise is a great way to maintain good heart health and prevent sudden cardiac arrest. It helps strengthen the heart muscles, improves blood circulation, and lowers the risk of heart diseases. Aim to exercise at least 30 minutes every day, whether it’s walking, jogging, or doing yoga. Even small changes like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or going for a walk during your lunch break can make a significant difference in keeping your heart healthy.
Watch What You Eat
Healthy eating habits are a cornerstone of maintaining good heart health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products can help reduce the risk of heart diseases. Avoid processed foods high in salt, sugar, and saturated fats. Instead, opt for healthier options like nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Also, avoid heavy meals before bedtime, as it can increase the risk of heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrest.
Manage Your Stress
Stress is one of the leading causes of heart diseases and sudden cardiac arrest. Finding ways to manage stress is crucial for maintaining good heart health. Whether it’s practicing meditation, yoga, or taking up a hobby, find some activities that help you relax and unwind. Also, avoid overworking yourself and take time out to recharge and rejuvenate yourself.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is a major risk factor for heart diseases and sudden cardiac arrest. The chemicals in tobacco damage the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart diseases, stroke, and other health complications. Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do to protect your heart. There are many resources available to help you quit, such as nicotine patches, gum, or support groups.
Regular Checkups
Regular checkups with your doctor are essential for maintaining good heart health. Your doctor can identify warning signs of heart diseases, monitor your heart function, and provide advice on how to keep your heart healthy. If you have a family history of heart diseases, it’s important to get regular checkups and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Treatment for Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a leading cause of death worldwide, with a survival rate of less than 10%. It can happen to anyone, anytime, anywhere, including individuals with no prior history of heart problems. The good news is that advancements in science and technology have led to new and innovative ways to treat SCA.
SCA is a medical emergency and it can be fatal within minutes. Saving the patient’s life requires immediate medical attention with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and a defibrillator, which sends electric shocks to the heart to restore its normal rhythm. There are two types of defibrillators—external defibrillators and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICD).
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs)
AEDs are portable devices that can be used by anyone, including non-medical professionals, to deliver an electric shock to the heart to restore its normal rhythm. They are becoming more common in public places such as airports, sports arenas, and shopping malls, making it easier to respond quickly to a cardiac emergency. With the right training, anyone can use an AED and potentially save a life.
Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICD)
Implantable cardioverter defibrillators are small devices that are implanted in the chest, and they are designed to detect irregular heart rhythms and send electrical shocks to return the heart to its normal rhythm. Studies have shown that ICDs have significantly reduced the risk of sudden cardiac death in people who are at high risk for this condition. If you have a history of heart problems or have a heart condition, then an ICD may be a great choice to ensure your heart stays healthy.
Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS)
Another option for treating sudden cardiac arrest is advanced cardiac life support (ACLS). ACLS involves a team of healthcare professionals who provide advanced care for people experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. The team works together to diagnose and treat the condition, using medications, defibrillation, and advanced airway management techniques. ACLS is typically available in hospital settings and offers a higher level of care than CPR and AED alone.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)
ECMO is a life-support machine that can take over the function of the heart and lungs in cases of severe heart and lung failure. In the case of SCA, ECMO can be used to maintain circulation and oxygenation until the heart can be restarted. In addition, ECMO can be used as a bridge to a more permanent treatment such as a heart transplant.
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (CRT)
CRT is a treatment that involves the implantation of a device called a pacemaker that sends electrical impulses to the heart to help it beat in a more synchronized pattern. This can be particularly helpful in cases where the heart’s electrical system suffers a disruption due to SCA. The device can also detect and treat dangerous heart rhythms.
Use of Stem Cells
Scientists are exploring the use of stem cells to help repair damaged heart tissue following an SCA event. By transplanting healthy stem cells into the heart, they hope to regenerate damaging tissue and improve overall heart function. Although this treatment is still experimental, early results are promising and could potentially lead to a more effective treatment for SCA in the future.
Virtual Reality CPR Training
One of the biggest challenges with treating SCA is the lack of trained individuals available to respond in an emergency. With virtual reality CPR training, anyone can learn how to perform CPR and use an AED in a realistic and immersive way. This technology has the potential to save countless lives by empowering more people to act quickly in a cardiac emergency.
Supplements for Heart Health
Dietary supplements may also help strengthen the heart. Patients can try supplements to keep the body healthy, but they are not a cure or prevention for sudden cardiac arrest or any other disease or illness. Always consult with a doctor before adding any supplement to a dietary regimen.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy heart. Taking magnesium supplements can help prevent arrhythmias, which is a common cause of SCA. Magnesium works by regulating nerve and muscle function and aiding in balancing electrolytes within the body. It reduces the risk of fatal arrhythmias that can cause sudden cardiac arrest.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3-6-9 fatty acids are essential fats that the body needs to maintain optimal health. They are to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Taking Omega-3 supplements has been shown to reduce the risk of arrhythmias and lower blood pressure, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy heart.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant that can help prevent oxidative damage to the heart. It is also a natural source of energy for the body’s cells, which can help improve energy levels for those with weakened hearts. Research has shown that CoQ10 powder can reduce the risk of arrhythmias and improve heart function, making it an essential supplement for those with a history of heart disease or sudden cardiac arrest.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for overall health and has been shown to play a role in preventing cardiovascular diseases. It helps regulate calcium levels in the body, which is essential for maintaining a healthy heart rhythm. Vitamin D can be obtained from sunlight, or you can also take vitamin D supplements to ensure that you are getting enough of this critical vitamin.
Vitamin B12
One vitamin that’s essential is Vitamin B12 for the body’s energy metabolism, and it plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of the heart. Taking vitamin B12 supplements can help reduce homocysteine levels in the body, which can help prevent atherosclerosis, a condition that increases the risk of heart disease.
Potassium
This mineral plays a role in relaxing blood vessel walls, allowing blood to flow smoothly. It also offsets the negative effects of salt on blood pressure. A low-potassium diet can increase the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. Those who take a potassium supplement should consult their doctor first as it can cause harm if taken in large doses.
Garlic
According to research, garlic extract may have positive effects on heart health. Studies on both animals and humans demonstrate a correlation between cardiovascular disease and diet. Specifically, the research suggests that it may reduce the rate at which cardiovascular diseases progress in the body, including stroke and cancer. As a dietary supplement, the recommended dosage for garlic extract powder is 650 mg twice a day or following a doctor’s instructions.
L-Carnitine
L-carnitine is a nutrient in the body that helps the mitochondria burn fat for energy. The body makes it naturally and it is made from two amino acids, lysine and methionine. According to research, carnitine successfully helped protect the heart tissue in animal subjects that lost blood and oxygen supply. Carnitine helped maintain the subjects’ blood and oxygen supply by maintaining antioxidant activity in the body. As a dietary supplement, the recommended dosage for L-carnitine base powder is 500 mg one to four times a day. However, always consult a doctor before taking L-carnitine.
Green Tea
Green tea is an antioxidant that has been credited for its numerous benefits. As a heart supplement, green tea may be able to help patients maintain healthy blood pressure and reduce inflammation. Green tea may also flush out toxins from the circulatory pathways and potentially help reduce the risk for cardiovascular problems. As a dietary supplement, the recommended dosage for green tea extract is 500 mg once or twice a day. Do not exceed 1,000 mg in one day and do not take the supplement for more than three months at a time. Consult a doctor before taking green tea extract.
Bottom Line
Sudden cardiac arrest is when a patient’s heart stops beating unexpectedly. Usually sudden cardiac arrest occurs because of irregular heart rhythms, called arrhythmias. When the heartbeat becomes irregular, it can cause it to stop completely. Then the heart loses its ability to pump blood and oxygen throughout the body efficiently.
Patients may often mistake sudden cardiac arrest for a heart attack. Although the two are share a connection, they are not the same. A heart attack is a circulatory problem, while sudden cardiac arrest is an electrical impulse malfunction in the heart. During a heart attack, the heart does not usually stop beating completely and symptoms begin to appear slowly. However, patients often do not show any signs or symptoms before sudden cardiac arrest. Usually the only sign is loss of consciousness from a lack of oxygen to the brain.
Sudden cardiac arrest is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. Without prompt attention, the patient may lose their life within minutes. Treatment requires cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and a defibrillator, which sends electrical shocks to the heart. This device helps regulate abnormal heart rhythms. Patients may also benefit from dietary supplements to maintain healthy cardiovascular function. Research suggests that supplements may effectively reduce the risk for heart problems. However, supplements are not a cure for sudden cardiac arrest or any other condition. Instead, they aim to improve overall health. Always consult with a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.