Warnings and Risk Factors
Often there is no prior warning sign that identifies a person at risk of SCA. Possible warning signs, when present, can include:
Fainting or dizziness with exercise
Excessive fatigue or shortness of breath with exercise
Chest pain or chest discomfort with exercise
Often there is no prior warning sign that identifies a person at risk of SCA.
Possible warning signs, when present, can include:
Similarly, there may be no known risk factor that identifies a person at risk of SCA.
Risk factors for SCA, when present, can include:
Diseases causing abnormal heart structure, for example Congenital Heart Disease and various forms of Cardiomyopathy.
Electrical diseases of the heart, which can predispose to abnormal heart rhythms like ventricular fibrillation. These include Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome and Long QT Syndrome.
Coronary Artery Disease, most commonly caused by atherosclerosis. (Risk factors for atherosclerosis include obesity, high blood pressure, sedentary lifestyle, tobacco use, diabetes and a family history of coronary artery disease).
Exposure to certain drugs of abuse such as cocaine, inhalants, recreational or club drugs, and even some prescription medications.
Family history of sudden unexplained or sudden cardiac death in a close relative before age 50.
Sudden blow to the chest directly over the heart (called commotio cordis).