According to an article published in HealthDay, many low-cost screening tests have detected deadly heart conditions in 10 out of 400 children who seemed healthy throughout their lives. These numbers show that it might be necessary to have children tested for possible deadly heart conditions such as sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in order to prevent premature deaths in both children and teens.
The Dangers of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Each year, sudden cardiac arrest has caused an estimated 1,000 to 7,000 deaths among children in the United States alone reported an article by HealthDay News. While SCA has been identified as the leading factor in the sudden deaths of children, SCA is often the cause of an undiagnosed heart condition. These undiagnosed heart conditions often go undetected because many children never show signs or symptoms of a heart condition until SCA occurs. SCA often occurs without any warning signs or symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
While SCA often comes without any warning, there are a few signs and symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest.
These symptoms include:
· Discomfort, pain or pressure in chest (can be during or after exercise) · Fainting or near-fainting (can be during or after exercise) · Dizziness/Lightheadedness · Extreme Fatigue · Extreme shortness of breath · Skipping or racing heartbeat · High Blood Pressure · Family history of heart abnormalities
Preventing Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Medical researchers have found out that a simple physical examination and an electrocardiogram (EKG) can increase the likelihood of SCA being identified in children and prevent death. An EKG can also help physicians to identify serious cardiovascular abnormalities. Other ways to prevent sudden cardiac arrest can be the use of medication, surgical treatment, and the implantation of a pacemaker.
Sources
“Don’t miss a beat- The warning signs of cardiac arrest” Laura Friend. Cook Children’s We do it all for kids. www.wedoitallforkids.com.
“Screening Seems to Catch Dangerous Heart Condition in Kids” HealthDay News. health.usnews.com