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How to Prevent Sudden Cardiac Death

According to the Mayo Clinic, 95 percent of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) cases result in death. SCA is the sudden loss of your heart's beating. As a result, you lose consciousness and stop breathing. In many instances SCA is the result of an underlying medical condition, such as coronary artery disease. While a change in lifestyle habits can help prevent SCA, you'll also need to see a physician to get routine check-ups if you've had a heart attack before. It may also help to get screened for the disease.

Things You'll Need

  • Medications prescribed by physician
  • Tests
  • ICD
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Instructions

  1. Screening

    • 1

      If you've had a heart attack in the past, get screened by a physician. Provide your physician with information on your condition, the date of your heart attack, and if you're taking any medications for the treatment of any underlying heart conditions.

    • 2

      Discuss with your physician if you've had any abnormal rhythms with your heart, such as a rapid heart beat that comes and goes. If you've had any fainting spells, you should also discuss this with your physician, as these signs are not normal.

    • 3

      Get an echocardiogram. An echocardiogram is a machine that uses sound waves to form a moving image of your heart. If any abnormalities are detected, your physician can determine what the cause of the abnormality is, and whether the abnormality may increase your chances of having SCA.

    • 4

      Ask your physician to perform an EPS (electrophysiology study). Your physician will numb either an area in your neck or groin and place a thin catheter into your heart. According to the Heart Rhythm Society, any issues with your heart can be located and whether you've suffered from a previous heart attack. The test can also help identify if you're in a higher risk group for SCA.

    ICD

    • 5

      If you've had SCA previously, you have an increased chance of suffering from the condition again. Ask your physician about getting an implantable cardioverter defibrillator. An ICD will help you prevent death from sudden cardiac arrest.

    • 6

      If your physician okays the decision to get an ICD, undergo the procedure. An ICD will shock your heart at any point the device detects an abnormal rhythm within your heart.

    • 7

      Take medications such as beta blockers as prescribed by your physician. Medications will be given in conjunction with an ICD to reduce the amount of irregular heartbeats that could make your ICD go off.

    Other Measures

    • 8

      Don't smoke if you've been diagnosed with a heart condition. Smoking constricts your blood vessels, which increases your chances of developing complications to your heart.

    • 9

      Change your diet. Cut out processed, high-fat foods, and incorporate more fruits and vegetables in your diet. Eat more antioxidant rich foods, such as berries like strawberries and raspberries.

    • 10

      Try to include exercise into your daily activities. However, if you have medical conditions that cause dizziness and shortness of breath, consult with your physician on what type of activities would be suitable for you.

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