Sudden Death: Understanding the Risk Factors and Prevention

The sudden and unexpected loss of life, particularly in individuals who seem healthy and active, can be a deeply unsettling event. While death is an inevitable part of life, certain factors can increase the likelihood of its sudden occurrence. Heart and cardiovascular issues are among the primary contributors to sudden death, with the specific causes varying depending on age.

Sudden Death: Heart Issues by Age

Professor Tan Huay Cheem, a senior consultant in Cardiology at the National University Heart Centre Singapore (NUHCS), sheds light on the common heart conditions associated with sudden death in different age groups. For individuals under 30, conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (abnormal thickening of the heart muscle), congenital coronary anomaly (birth defects in the coronary arteries), myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle), and arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat) can lead to sudden death. In contrast, those over 30 are more likely to experience heart attacks, myocarditis, strokes, and aortic dissection (tear in the inner lining of the major blood vessel).

Other Factors Influencing Sudden Death

Beyond age, certain factors can also contribute to the risk of sudden death. Gender plays a role, with men being twice as likely as women to experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Additionally, age is a significant factor, with statistics revealing that in 2019, 36.2% of deaths occurred in individuals over 65 years old.

Ruptured Aneurysm: A Silent Threat

While heart problems are a major cause of sudden death, a ruptured aneurysm in the arterial blood vessels can also be fatal. Dr. Rajesh Dharmaraj, Head of the division and senior consultant vascular surgeon at NUHCS, explains that this occurs when the weakened and bulging artery wall ruptures, leading to internal bleeding. This is particularly dangerous in patients with large, undiagnosed aneurysms.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Aneurysm

Symptoms of a ruptured aneurysm can be sudden and severe, including intense pain in the back and abdomen. Dizziness or loss of consciousness due to a drop in blood pressure may also occur. Prompt medical attention is crucial in such situations.

Taking Proactive Measures for Prevention

While it's impossible to completely eliminate the risk of sudden death, adopting a healthy lifestyle and undergoing regular health checks can significantly reduce the chances. A healthy diet, proper sleep, stress management, and regular exercise are essential for maintaining heart health. Regular cholesterol and blood pressure checks are also crucial, particularly for those with family history of heart disease. It's crucial to be aware of consistently elevated blood pressure above 140/90 mmHg, as it can damage your heart and blood vessels if left untreated.

Familiarizing yourself with the symptoms of a heart attack or stroke is also essential. These can include chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, or weakness in one side of the body. Early detection and treatment can dramatically improve outcomes.

Remember, sudden death can happen to anyone, regardless of their perceived health status. By taking proactive measures, we can minimize the risk and protect our heart health.