Leading cardiologist laid emphasis on a possible link between cardiac arrest and COVID-19

04 March 2023, Hyderabad: Cardiac arrest cases have significantly increased in India, especially in younger age groups. People in their mid-30s to mid-40s are witnessing a 13% increase in sudden cardiac arrest, according to research from the American Heart Journal. We are receiving news of the occurrence of cardiac arrests among youngsters dancing in festivals, playing cricket, watching sports matches, and even collapsing midway while exercising. This is quite frightening and a hard-hitting reminder for all of us to take care for our heart health.

Dr. B. Hygriv Rao, Senior Cardiologist & Electrophysiologist at KIMS Hospital, Hyderabad says, “A sudden cardiac arrest is a catastrophic event leading to death in a few minutes. In our country, it most commonly affects individuals between the ages of 55 and 60, although younger people and even children can also be at risk. In India, approximately 1.3 lakh people die from cardiac arrest each year. Those who have previously experienced a heart attack or have a weakened heart are particularly vulnerable, although some people without prior heart disease can also experience sudden cardiac arrest. Recently, there have been reports of patients who have recovered from COVID-19 experiencing cardiac arrest. Although more research is needed in this area, it is believed that inflammation of the heart muscle, known as myocarditis, may be a contributing factor. It is unclear which COVID-19 patients are at risk of sudden death, but those who have had rapid heart rates, brief periods of unconsciousness, or abnormal echocardiograms should be closely monitored and further evaluated.”

Dr. Rao adds, “Preventing sudden deaths involves managing the risk factors that contribute to heart attacks and cardiac arrest. This includes monitoring diabetes through HBA1C testing, controlling blood pressure, avoiding smoking, taking statins to maintain optimal cholesterol levels, and maintaining a healthy weight (BMI<25) through regular exercise which will also improve the levels of good cholesterol (HDL). Early detection of coronary artery disease is also important, particularly for those who experience chest pain during physical activity. Patients with a history of heart attack or weak heart function should regularly take their medications and consult with their cardiologist about the potential benefits of devices like defibrillators (ICDs). This device can monitor and improve the heartbeat and deliver electrical shocks during potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias to restore the normal heart rate and save the life of the patient.”

It is important to note that 70% of cardiac arrest events occur outside of hospitals, in settings such as homes, airports, train stations, movie theaters, and shopping malls. Prompt action by a bystander who witnesses this event is crucial and may save a life. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) involves chest compressions, airway maintenance and using a defibrillator to shock the heart if available. Teaching CPR to the public is a very effective strategy for rescuing people from sudden deaths. A bystander who witnesses the event is the only real hope in this situation as by the time medical help arrives, even if the patient survives, his brain would have suffered significant damage.