Ravi Shankar Best Cardiac Surgeon

The Silent Threat: Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest

By Dr. Sanjay Kumar in CTVS at Paras Hospital Gurgaon, Paras Hospitals East & Patna.

Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Losing a loved one unexpectedly is an indescribable pain. As I walk down memory lane, a deeply painful recollection resurfaces—one of the most devastating moments of my life. A dear family member lost his life at a young age due to sudden cardiac arrest. This was in the 1970s when medical science was still evolving, and in India, heart disease diagnosis and treatment were in their infancy. Losing someone so young was not just a personal tragedy but a profound turning point for me. That loss ignited a purpose in my life—to become a heart specialist so I could educate people and save as many lives as possible.

A Rising Concern in Recent Times

In recent years, we have witnessed the sudden deaths of many young, vibrant, and seemingly healthy celebrities due to sudden cardiac arrest. These individuals had no known history of heart disease and appeared to be in good health. So what happened? What caused their untimely deaths? Why did they collapse suddenly—while sleeping, working out, or performing routine activities? Could this happen to anyone? How can we identify those at risk? These questions weigh heavily on our minds. Understanding the underlying causes is critical in preventing such tragedies.

What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening emergency in which the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, preventing blood flow to vital organs such as the brain, lungs, and kidneys. Without immediate medical intervention, unconsciousness follows within seconds, and death occurs within minutes.

Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest: Understanding the Difference

Though often used interchangeably, a heart attack and cardiac arrest are not the same:

  • Heart Attack occurs when one or more arteries supplying blood to the heart become blocked, depriving the heart muscle of oxygen. This damage can trigger dangerous heart rhythms and, if untreated, lead to death.
  • Cardiac Arrest results from an electrical malfunction in the heart, causing it to stop beating suddenly. While a heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, other conditions can also trigger it.

Heart Conditions That Can Cause Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Several underlying heart conditions can increase the risk of SCA, including:

  • Long QT Syndrome – A disorder affecting the heart’s electrical system, leading to irregular heartbeats.
  • Brugada Syndrome – A genetic condition that disrupts the heart’s normal rhythm.
  • Cardiomyopathy
    • Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy – Thickened heart muscles make it harder for the heart to pump blood.
    • Dilated Cardiomyopathy – The heart becomes enlarged and weakened.
  • Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack) – A blocked artery deprives the heart muscle of oxygen.
  • Heart Failure – The heart becomes too weak to pump blood efficiently.
  • Recreational Drug Use – Drugs like cocaine can trigger fatal heart rhythm abnormalities.
  • Infectious Diseases – Certain infections can damage the heart muscle.
  • Extreme Physical Exertion or Major Blood Loss – These can cause a sudden drop in blood flow, triggering cardiac arrest.
  • Congenital Heart Defects – Some individuals are born with structural heart abnormalities that increase the risk of SCA.

Warning Signs of Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Sudden cardiac arrest often occurs without warning, but in some cases, symptoms may indicate an impending event. These include:

  • Sudden loss of consciousness
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Chest pain or discomfort
  • Shortness of breath

Emergency Response: Immediate Actions to Save a Life

In the event of sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts. Immediate intervention can mean the difference between life and death. Here’s what to do:

  1. Call for Emergency Help – Seek immediate medical assistance.
  2. Perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) – Begin chest compressions to maintain blood circulation until professional help arrives.
  3. Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) – If available, an AED can deliver an electric shock to restore a normal heart rhythm.

How to Reduce the Risk of Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

While SCA can be unpredictable, proactive steps can help lower the risk:

  • Undergo regular cardiac evaluations, especially if you have a family history of heart disease.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
  • Manage underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
  • Avoid recreational drugs and excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Be aware of any unusual symptoms and seek medical advice promptly.

Final Thoughts

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a silent threat that can occur without warning, making awareness and prevention crucial. Recognizing early signs, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, and seeking timely medical care can significantly reduce the risk. Educating ourselves and others empowers us to take proactive steps in saving lives and protecting families from unexpected loss.

While heart attacks remain the leading cause of SCA, other less common triggers can also be prevented with increased self-awareness and timely medical intervention. A little vigilance today can go a long way in safeguarding our heart health.

Ravi Shankar Best Cardiac Surgeon

Shocking Facts About High Cholesterol Symptoms You Must Know

By Dr. Sanjay Kumar in CTVS at Paras Hospital Gurgaon and Paras Hospitals East.

High Cholesterol: Symptoms, Risks, and Effective Management

Cholesterol: The Silent Risk Factor You Need to Watch

Cholesterol is a fatty substance in your blood that is essential for hormone production and cell function. However, excess low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke. The alarming reality is that high cholesterol typically has no noticeable symptoms until severe complications arise. Recognizing potential warning signs and monitoring your levels regularly can help you take control of your heart health and prevent life-threatening conditions.

What is High Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a type of fat (lipid) that your liver naturally produces and is also found in certain foods. It plays a vital role in hormone production, digestion, and overall cell function. However, excessive cholesterol, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, can pose serious health risks.

Types of Cholesterol

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – “Bad” Cholesterol

  • Builds up in artery walls, leading to blockages
  • Increases the risk of heart disease and stroke

High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) – “Good” Cholesterol

  • Helps remove excess LDL from the bloodstream
  • Lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases

A high cholesterol diagnosis is typically based on:

  • LDL cholesterol above 160 mg/dL (4.1 mmol/L)
  • Total cholesterol above 200 mg/dL (5.2 mmol/L)

Monitoring and managing cholesterol levels is crucial to preventing heart-related complications.

Signs and Symptoms of High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is often referred to as a “silent” condition because it typically does not cause noticeable symptoms until it has already led to serious health complications. However, certain signs may indicate cholesterol-related issues:

Common Signs to Watch For

1. Chest Pain (Angina)

  • Restricted blood flow due to plaque buildup in the arteries can cause chest pain or discomfort, especially during physical exertion or stress.

2. Shortness of Breath

  • Narrowed arteries may reduce oxygen supply to the heart and lungs, leading to breathing difficulties, particularly during activity.

3. Fatigue or Weakness

  • Poor circulation caused by cholesterol deposits can decrease oxygen supply to muscles and organs, causing persistent fatigue.

4. Numbness or Tingling in the Extremities

  • Blocked arteries may reduce blood flow to the arms, legs, or feet, causing sensations of numbness or tingling.

5. Stroke Symptoms

  • In severe cases, high cholesterol can lead to a stroke, with symptoms such as:
    • Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body)
    • Confusion or difficulty speaking
    • Vision problems
    • Loss of balance or dizziness

Since high cholesterol does not always present clear warning signs, routine health checkups and cholesterol level monitoring are crucial for early detection and prevention.

Risk Factors for High Cholesterol

Several factors can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease and other complications.

1. Unhealthy Diet

  • Consuming foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can raise LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. Processed foods, fried items, and red meat are common culprits.

2. Obesity

  • Excess body fat, especially around the abdomen, is linked to lower HDL (“good”) cholesterol and higher LDL cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease.

3. Lack of Physical Activity

  • Regular exercise helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels by increasing HDL cholesterol and reducing LDL cholesterol. A sedentary lifestyle, on the other hand, contributes to cholesterol buildup.

4. Smoking

  • Smoking damages blood vessels, lowers HDL cholesterol, and increases the risk of plaque formation in the arteries, leading to heart disease and stroke.

5. Age and Gender

  • Cholesterol levels naturally increase with age. Women often experience a rise in cholesterol levels after menopause due to hormonal changes.

6. Family History

  • Genetics play a significant role in cholesterol levels. If your family has a history of high cholesterol or heart disease, your risk is higher.

7. Medical Conditions

  • Health conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, and kidney disease can contribute to high cholesterol levels by altering how the body processes fats.

Understanding these risk factors can help in making lifestyle changes to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Diagnosis and Treatment of High Cholesterol

Diagnosis

Since high cholesterol typically has no symptoms, routine screening is crucial for early detection. A lipid panel blood test measures:

  • Total cholesterol
  • LDL (“bad”) cholesterol
  • HDL (“good”) cholesterol
  • Triglycerides

Your healthcare provider will assess these levels and determine the best course of action.

Treatment Options

  1. Lifestyle Changes
    • Healthy Diet: Eat more fibre-rich foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats while avoiding saturated and trans fats.
    • Regular Exercise: At least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days can help lower LDL and raise HDL cholesterol.
    • Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly improve cholesterol levels.
    • Quit Smoking: Stopping smoking can raise HDL cholesterol and improve overall heart health.
    • Limit Alcohol Consumption: Excessive drinking can increase cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
  2. Medications
    If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications, such as:
    • Statins: Reduce LDL cholesterol production in the liver.
    • Ezetimibe: Helps block cholesterol absorption from food.
    • PCSK9 Inhibitors: Lower LDL cholesterol levels in high-risk patients.

Regular follow-ups and cholesterol monitoring are essential to track progress and adjust treatment as needed.

High Cholesterol: Symptoms, Risks, and Effective Management

Lifestyle Changes

  1. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet
    • Focus on foods low in saturated and trans fats.
    • Include fibre-rich options like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats (olive oil, nuts).
  2. Increase Physical Activity
    • Regular exercise helps raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol and lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol.
  3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
    • Losing excess weight improves cholesterol levels and overall heart health.
  4. Quit Smoking
    • Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol and significantly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
  5. Manage Stress
    • High stress can lead to unhealthy habits that may negatively impact cholesterol levels.

Medications

If lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications:

  • Statins: Block cholesterol production in the liver, lowering LDL cholesterol.
  • Bile Acid Sequestrants: Prevent cholesterol absorption from bile acids in the digestive system.
  • Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitors: Reduce cholesterol absorption in the intestines.
  • Fibrates: Lower triglycerides and, in some cases, raise HDL cholesterol.

It’s essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations and take prescribed medications as directed for effective cholesterol management.

Final Thought

High cholesterol is a silent risk factor for serious cardiovascular conditions. Since it often has no symptoms, regular screening and adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle are key to prevention. A balanced diet, exercise, and weight management help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, medications can further reduce risks.

Take proactive steps today to protect your heart health.

For expert guidance and treatment, consult Dr. Sanjay Kumar.

📞 Book an appointment at Paras Hospital Gurgaon, Paras Hospitals East & Patna. – Call: 07366098456