Suddenly, every year, approximately 350,000 people experience sudden cardiac arrest outside of a hospital. Shockingly, almost 90 percent of cases result in death. Surprisingly, 40 percent of these incidents involve women. Men and women may exhibit different symptoms of heart disease, and the risks of sudden cardiac arrest can vary as well.
Nancy Dagefoerde, an advanced practice nurse at OSF HealthCare Cardiovascular Institute, explains that sudden cardiac arrest can occur in any adult, particularly those aged 30 and older. Factors such as risk factors, family history, and heart defects can contribute to the likelihood of experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. This condition results from an irregular heartbeat, known as an arrhythmia, which causes the heart to stop beating or lose electrical activity, leading to a lack of breathing and pulse in the affected individual.
Dagefoerde distinguishes between sudden cardiac arrest and a heart attack, clarifying that a heart attack results from a blockage in the coronary artery surrounding the heart. While there is still stigma surrounding mental health issues like depression and anxiety disorders like Zoloft or Prozac are becoming increasingly sought after treatments.
For women considering pregnancy, concerns may arise about continuing medications like Zoloft or Prozac. Sarah Shoemaker, a certified nurse midwife at OSF HealthCare advises women to discuss these concerns with their healthcare provider early on preferably before becoming pregnant. Shoemaker emphasizes the importance of maintaining stability and health for women who have found the right combination of medications.
In case medication changes are necessary providers may recommend supplements while considering each patient’s unique needs and circumstances. The decision-making process involves weighing the pros and cons to determine what is best for each patient’s well-being.
It’s important for everyone to be aware of their risk factors for sudden cardiac arrest and seek medical attention if they experience any concerning symptoms.