Doctor explains reasons for cardiac arrest at an young age

An Assistant Professor of Sacred Heart College, Thevara in Kerala, died on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest while taking part in the tug of war competition as part of this year's Onam celebration. A few days ago, another similar incident had happened at a gym in Kochi where a youngster collapsed and died while working out at the gym. Sadly, this isn't new as many Indians under 50, who were visibly healthy and fit, lost their lives in the recent times. Actors Daniel Balaji, Puneeth Rajkumar, Chiranjeevi Sarja, Sidharth Shukla and singer KK are a few among them. Actress Sushmita Sen and Shreyas Talpade had also underwent angioplasty in similar incidents a while ago. 

According to Dr Jose Chacko Periyapuram, Cardiac Surgeon of Kochi's Lisie Hospital, there isn’t an only reason that could be pinpointed on why cases of sudden cardiac arrest and deaths are increasing among younger age groups. However, there are a few health conditions that can lead to it: 
Hormonal imbalance
When you work out in the gym or indulge in demanding physical activities, certain hormones are produced in the body. Besides, the adrenaline in the blood too rises causing cardiac arrythmia or irregular heartbeats, which could push someone into sudden death. In such situations, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation or CPR could be administered to save the patient’s life. However, the person who is trying to save the patient should know how to do the CPR properly. With properly administered CPR, it is possible to bring at least some people back to life. When cardiac arrest happens, the arteries get shut, damaging the heart muscles which would then lead to low blood pressure and irregular heartbeats. 

Silent killer
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition that is almost undetectable and is a side effect of severe viral infections like Covid 19. It is common for doctors to prescribe antibiotics for fever and cough leading to shortness of breath; but this viral fever may affect the heart muscles (viral myocarditis). This condition is often not detected soon as echocardiogram or ECG tests are not usually conducted in patients who seek treatment for viral fever. Heart becomes enlarged and cannot pump blood effectively which slowly leads to heart failure. Cardiomyopathy may cause sudden cardiac arrest while indulging in intense physical activities. 

Mental stress
You may wonder whether one dies of stress. It rarely happens in a healthy person; however, those who suffer from heart ailments, blocked arteries, valve issues and cardiomyopathy are at risk of this condition. Their heart may stop beating when they go through severe or unbearable stress. This condition too isn’t easily detectable. 
Do not ignore the warnings
The body may give warnings days or weeks before it suffers cardiac arrest. In most cases, we tend to ignore those warnings. Severe chest pain, shortness of breath, excessive exhaustion, lethargy and sleepiness are some of the symptoms of poor heart health. When the body gives such warnings, do not hesitate to consult a doctor for detailed checkups. Seeking proper treatment at the right time could save your life by avoiding sudden cardiac arrest. 

Drugs and steroids 
Rampant drug abuse and overdose are some of the other reasons that may lead to sudden cardiac arrest and death in youngsters. It is common for body builders to consume steroids and growth hormones to improve their physique. However, these may damage the heart muscles and lead to uneven heart beats. 
Proper tests and treatment
Before starting a specific workout or adopting a lifestyle, it is important to consult a doctor and undergo certain tests. For instance, before working out at the gym, you should consult a cardiologist to see whether your body, especially the heart, can bear the stress. Certain tests can detect high blood pressure and thickened heart muscles. By changing your lifestyle accordingly, you can avoid the risk of sudden cardiac arrests. 

Post Covid heart condition
There aren’t any clear ideas or knowledge about the risk of post-COVID heart attacks. However, like any other severe viral infection, COVID-19 may damage the heart muscles (myocarditis). The lung fibrosis caused by the coronavirus lowers the oxygen supply and jeopardises the functioning of the heart. Those who have recovered from COVID-19 should do intense physical activities only after undergoing thorough checkups. 
Here's how to do CPR properly
CPR is the emergency procedure administered to a person whose heartbeat has stopped or suddenly collapses. Push hard and fast in the centre of the chest 100 times a minute, with a compression depth of at least 3 – 5 inches. Give two rescue breaths after 30 chest compressions. CPR should be administered until the patient regains his heartbeat and starts breathing. This emergency procedure could ensure temporary blood flow to the brain and other vital organs.