Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA): Symptoms
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. SCA usually causes death if it’s not treated within minutes.
Part of: Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)
Signs of Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)
Usually, the first sign of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is loss of consciousness (fainting). At the same time, no heartbeat (or pulse) can be felt.
Some people may have a racing heartbeat or feel dizzy or light-headed just before they faint. Within an hour before SCA, some people have chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea (feeling sick to the stomach), or vomiting.
How Is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Diagnosed?
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) happens without warning and requires emergency treatment. Doctors rarely diagnose SCA with medical tests as it’s happening. Instead, SCA often is diagnosed after it happens. Doctors do this by ruling out other causes of a person’s sudden collapse.
Specialists Involved
If you’re at high risk for SCA, your doctor may refer you to a cardiologist. This is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating heart diseases and conditions. Your cardiologist will work with… Read more about Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA): Symptoms