HEART HEALTHY AND FUNCTIONING OPTIMALLY

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and sudden cardiac arrest is a significant contributor to this grim statistic. This condition can occur unexpectedly, without any warning signs, and can be fatal if not treated immediately. While some cases of sudden cardiac arrest are due to underlying medical conditions, others are preventable, Says Dr Ranjit Jagtap Pune.

The electrical system includes the sinoatrial (SA) node, the atrioventricular (AV) node, and the Purkinje fibres. The SA node is the genuine pacemaker of the heart, and it transmits electrical impulses to the atria, rendering them to contract. The impulses then travel to the AV node, which delays the impulse briefly before sending it to the ventricles via the Purkinje fibres. This delay allows the atria to contract fully before the ventricles contract, ensuring that blood is efficiently pumped out of the heart.

In a healthy heart, the electrical system works seamlessly, allowing the heart to beat at a regular rhythm. However, certain factors can disrupt this system, leading to abnormal heart rhythms, or arrhythmias. Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating due to a severe arrhythmia, preventing blood from flowing to the brain and other vital organs.

TOP FIVE FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO SCA — GENETICS, AGE, LIFESTYLE, MEDICAL CONDITIONS, AND MEDICATION

Factor 1: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Factor 2: Congenital Heart Defects

Factor 3: Heart Attack

Factor 4: Electrolyte Imbalances

Factor 5: Drug and Alcohol Abuse