Is sudden cardiac death hereditary?

Written by Chen Guang Yin

Cardiology

Updated on September 30, 2024

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The majority of sudden cardiac deaths are caused by acute and extensive myocardial infarction, with some caused by malignant arrhythmias. Coronary atherosclerotic heart disease has a genetic history. Patients with such a family history, especially those with early-onset heart disease family history—that is, a family history of heart disease before the age of 50—should be given high attention. Heart disease has a genetic predisposition, and since sudden cardiac death is a type of heart disease, it also has a genetic predisposition.

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Written by Chen Guang Yin

Cardiology

40sec

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Does cardiogenic sudden death cause vomiting blood?

Of course, sudden cardiac death is now a very common cause of death. At places like airports and bus stations, we often see reports of such incidents, and many young people are also affected. However, patients experiencing sudden cardiac death generally do not present with symptoms of vomiting blood, as it is caused by cardiac arrest. Vomiting blood is usually associated with conditions such as gastric ulcers leading to severe bleeding, gastric cancer, or cirrhosis leading to rupture of varicose veins at the base of the stomach. The likelihood of vomiting blood occurring in cases of sudden cardiac death is very low, almost nonexistent.

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Written by Chen Guang Yin

Cardiology

44sec

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The difference between sudden cardiac death and myocardial infarction

Sudden cardiac death and myocardial infarction are both types of coronary heart disease, but they are different from each other. Firstly, having a myocardial infarction does not necessarily result in sudden death. Myocardial damage involves a large area of necrosis in the heart, and the patient may experience symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, chest pain, and sweating. The main symptom of sudden cardiac death is the abrupt cessation of vital signs, with breathing and pulse disappearing. This condition can be caused by a large and extensive acute myocardial infarction, but it can also be caused by other reasons such as electrolyte disturbances or malignant arrhythmias, which are different causes.

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Written by Li Hai Wen

Cardiology

1min 8sec

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What tests are needed to prevent sudden cardiac death?

To prevent cardiogenic sudden death, the following examinations are needed: First, echocardiography, which can preliminarily determine if there are any organic heart diseases, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, dilated cardiomyopathy, ischemic cardiomyopathy, or heart valve diseases. These heart conditions are significant causes of cardiogenic sudden death; Second, undergo an electrocardiogram (ECG), which can determine if there is an acute myocardial infarction, another significant cause of cardiogenic sudden death. Additionally, a Holter monitor test should be conducted to observe any serious arrhythmias within a 24-hour period; Third, blood tests, such as tests for cardiac enzymes and troponin. If there is a significant increase in cardiac enzymes and troponin, it is important to be vigilant about the possibility of an acute myocardial infarction. Also, blood tests for electrolytes should be done to detect any severe electrolyte imbalances, which are also significant triggers for cardiogenic sudden death.

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Written by Chen Guang Yin

Cardiology

40sec

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Can cardiogenic sudden death be resuscitated?

If cardiogenic sudden death is promptly rescued, it is possible to save the individual. For example, if we immediately perform on-the-spot rescue after cardiogenic sudden death occurs, administering CPR within 4-6 minutes, then a large number of people can be rescued successfully. Some diseases might not even leave any sequelae. The key lies in the timing of the rescue. We say that time is life. For patients who suffer from cardiogenic sudden death, we must act immediately on the spot, wherever the sudden death occurs, to start the rescue, immediately initiating artificial respiration and external chest compressions.

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Written by Zhang Yue Mei

Cardiology

52sec

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Does sudden cardiac death have a connection with overwork?

Sudden cardiac death is directly related to overexertion, particularly in individuals with coronary heart disease, congenital heart disease, rheumatic heart disease, viral myocarditis, and heart rhythm disorders, especially those accompanied by heart failure. Excessive strain can increase the burden on the heart, exacerbate heart failure, lead to arrhythmias, and in severe cases, result in sudden death. Therefore, patients with structural heart disease must follow a doctor's guidance to routinely use effective medications for treatment, rest adequately, avoid overexertion, and maintain a low-fat, low-salt diet to minimize factors that increase cardiac load and prevent the occurrence of sudden death.