With September upon us, the school summer holidays come to an end and children return to schools across the UK. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is often perceived as a condition affecting primarily adults, particularly those with known heart conditions or risk factors like obesity and high blood pressure. It's crucial to recognise that SCA can also occur in children, and understanding its causes, symptoms, and prevention can save lives.

What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Sudden cardiac arrest is a condition where the heart unexpectedly stops beating. This abrupt cessation of heart function leads to the stopping of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Without immediate intervention, chances of survival decrease 10% per minute.

Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Children

While less common in children than adults, SCA can still occur and is often linked to underlying heart conditions, many of which may be undiagnosed. Key causes include:

  1. Congenital Heart Defects: Some children are born with heart abnormalities that may increase the risk of SCA. These defects might not be evident until they cause significant problems.
  2. Cardiomyopathies: These are diseases of the heart muscle that can cause it to become enlarged, thick, or rigid. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a condition where the heart muscle thickens abnormally, is a leading cause of SCA in young athletes.
  3. Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms, such as Long QT Syndrome or Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, can lead to SCA. These conditions can be hereditary and may not present symptoms until a sudden cardiac event occurs.
  4. Myocarditis: This is an inflammation of the heart muscle, often caused by viral infections, which can lead to SCA.
  5. Commotio Cordis: This rare event occurs when a child receives a blunt impact to the chest, particularly during sports, causing the heart to go into a fatal arrhythmia.

 

Recognising the Signs

Sudden cardiac arrest strikes without warning, making it challenging to predict. Some children may exhibit warning signs before an event, including:

  • Unexplained Fainting or Seizures: Especially during physical activity or as a response to startling.
  • Chest Pain or Discomfort: Complaints of chest pain, particularly with exercise, should be taken seriously.
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing that cannot be explained by asthma or other known conditions.
  • Dizziness or Palpitations: Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or experiencing a racing heart.

Prevention and Response

Screening and Medical Evaluation:

  • Family History: Understanding and discussing any family history of heart conditions or sudden unexplained deaths can help identify children at risk
  • Sports Physicals: Regular physical examinations for young athletes can help detect potential heart issues. An electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram might be recommended in cases with suspicious findings.

Education and Awareness:

  • CPR Training: Parents, teachers, and coaches should be trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). Immediate CPR and AED use are critical in saving lives during SCA.
  • AED Accessibility: Ensuring AEDs are available and accessible in schools, sports fields, and community centres can make a significant difference.

Healthy Lifestyle:

  • Regular Check-ups: Routine paediatric visits are essential for monitoring heart health and overall well-being.
  • Balanced Diet and Exercise: Encouraging a heart-healthy diet and regular physical activity can contribute to overall cardiovascular health.

Sudden cardiac arrest in children, though rare, is a devastating event. By understanding the potential causes, recognising the warning signs, and being prepared to respond, we can take critical steps to protect our children's heart health. Awareness, education, and proactive measures are key to preventing these tragedies and ensuring that our children lead healthy, active lives.

Stay informed, stay vigilant, and prioritise heart health for all ages.

 

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