Doctors warn: Sudden cardiac arrest rarely occurs without warning signals. New research suggests that the body often gives warning signs in advance, which can appear days or even weeks before a critical condition.
This is a condition where the heart suddenly stops pumping blood due to an irregular heartbeat. This is different from a heart attack, which is caused by a blockage in an artery. However, a heart attack is often the cause of subsequent cardiac arrest.
What the research showed
Nearly half of patients experienced unusual symptoms before the dangerous condition set in, according to a study published in the Lancet journal. Scientists analyzed more than 1,500 cases and concluded that these signals can appear from a few hours to a few weeks before cardiac arrest.
Experts emphasize that timely response to such symptoms can save lives.
Four main signs
Shortness of breath:
If breathing becomes difficult even without physical exertion, this may indicate a problem with the heart. The body tries to compensate for the lack of oxygen, which creates a feeling of lack of air.
Chest pain or discomfort
It's not always a sharp pain. More often, it's a feeling of squeezing, burning, or pressure in the chest that may radiate to the arm, neck, or jaw. This symptom can easily be confused with less serious problems, but it's dangerous to ignore.
Excessive sweating:
Profuse sweating for no apparent reason is another possible sign, especially if it occurs suddenly and without physical exertion.
Convulsive states:
In some cases, symptoms similar to seizures are recorded before cardiac arrest. This indicates serious disorders in the body and requires immediate attention from doctors.
What is important to know
Doctors emphasize that even one of these symptoms is a reason to consult a specialist, especially if it recurs or worsens. Early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of avoiding critical consequences.
Experts also urge not to ignore the body's signals and not to engage in self-medication, as cardiovascular diseases remain one of the leading causes of mortality in the world.
