How is Sudden Cardiac Dysfunction (SCD) different from a heart attack?
Verified by: Dr. Nitin Jagasia, Head-Emergency Services, Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai
Now, most of you might be already mistaking SCD to be a medical term for heart attack, but in reality, they are two completely different heart conditions.
- Heart Attack or ‘Myocardial Infarction’ takes place when there is a blockage in any one of the coronary arteries, preventing the heart from getting sufficient amount of oxygen-rich blood.
- On the other hand, sudden cardiac arrest occurs when there is a malfunction in the electrical system of the heart. This leads the heart to beat dangerously and extremely fast, and as a result, the ventricles start to quiver – a condition known as ‘ventricular fibrillation’. The first few minutes are very crucial as the blood flow to the brain gets cuts down drastically and the person loses consciousness, which can ultimately result in death.
Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Dysfunction
In many cases, sudden cardiac arrests take place without any prior symptoms and signs. But sometimes there are drastic signs and symptoms, such as:
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations
- Sudden collapse
- No pulse
- Losing consciousness
- Weakness
- Rapid heartbeat
What steps should you take during a sudden cardiac dysfunction?
Survival of a sudden cardiac dysfunction is as high as 90% if the above measures are taken in the first few minutes. One should remember the emergency number 1066 in case one witnesses an individual suffering from sudden cardiac dysfunction. By the time the ambulance arrives for further medical assistance, the witness can check for vital signs like heart rate, breathing and pulse along with the state of consciousness.
On finding abnormal or absence of vital signs, you may begin chest compressions until help arrives. This emergency step ensures that the victim does not suffer from complications and at times may even recover temporarily until a doctor attends to him.
Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai has a well-equipped Emergency Room to handle all complex medical emergencies with internationally trained doctors and support staff.
So, remember to dial 1066 in case of a medical emergency for immediate medical assistance.