Sudden Cardiac Arrest and Death in Athletes
Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes: Understanding the Risk and Saving Lives When we think of athletes, we associate them with peak physical fitness, stamina, and resilience. However, even the healthiest individuals can face an unexpected and tragic danger — s sudden cardiac death in athletes . Each year, shocking cases emerge of young, active athletes collapsing on the field due to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) . Understanding its causes, warning signs, and preventive strategies is essential to safeguard lives. What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest? Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart abruptly stops functioning properly due to an electrical malfunction. This disrupts the heart's rhythm, halting blood flow to the brain and vital organs. Without immediate treatment, it can lead to death within minutes. Unlike a heart attack — which is caused by blocked arteries — sudden death in athletes is usually due to an electrical issue in the heart. This distinction is critical, a...