Sudden Cardiac Death

Overview

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is an unexpected loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness, typically caused by an electrical disturbance in the heart that disrupts its pumping ability. It occurs within minutes and is often fatal if not treated immediately.

While it can strike without warning, many individuals have underlying heart conditions that increase their risk. At Cardiology Care NYC, we specialize in identifying those risks through advanced screening and diagnostic tools, so you can take proactive steps to protect your heart.

Causes

Sudden cardiac death is most often caused by arrhythmias, abnormal heart rhythms, with ventricular fibrillation being the most common culprit. Contributing causes and risk factors include:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD)
• Previous heart attack
• Heart failure or cardiomyopathy
• Inherited arrhythmia syndromes (e.g., Long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome)
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
• Electrical abnormalities of the heart
• Substance abuse, especially stimulants
• Severe electrolyte imbalances

Understanding your personal risk, especially if you have a history of heart disease or family history of cardiac arrest is the first step toward prevention.

Symptoms

The hallmark of sudden cardiac death is collapse without warning, but some people experience warning signs in the days or hours beforehand. These may include:

• Unexplained chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations or fluttering
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue
• Fainting or near-fainting episodes (syncope)

These symptoms should never be ignored, especially if you have known cardiovascular risks.

Diagnosis

At Cardiology Care NYC, we focus on early detection of the heart abnormalities that can lead to sudden cardiac death. Our diagnostic services include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Identifies arrhythmias, conduction disorders, or past cardiac injury.
• Holter Monitor: Tracks your heart rhythm continuously over 24–48 hours to detect intermittent arrhythmias.
• Echocardiogram: Evaluates heart structure, wall motion, and ejection fraction to detect conditions like cardiomyopathy.
• Stress Test: Assesses how your heart performs under exertion and helps identify silent ischemia or arrhythmias.
• Heart Health Screening: Comprehensive evaluations for those with risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
• Cardiology Consultation: A full clinical assessment to determine your individual risk and create a personalized monitoring plan.

Treatment

While sudden cardiac death is an emergency event, prevention is possible and that’s where our work comes in. At Cardiology Care NYC, our treatment strategy is focused on early intervention, risk reduction, and long-term cardiac care:

Medical Management

• Blood pressure, cholesterol, and arrhythmia management through medication
• Heart failure treatment (if applicable)
• Beta-blockers and antiarrhythmic drugs (as prescribed by your cardiologist)

Risk Reduction for Inherited Conditions

• Family history evaluation
• Genetic counseling referrals (if indicated)
• Close monitoring for early signs of electrical or structural abnormalities

Monitoring & Preventive Screenings

• Holter and ECG monitoring for arrhythmia detection
• Echocardiogram to monitor heart function
• Stress testing for exertion-related symptoms

While we do not implant defibrillators or perform surgeries, we coordinate referrals for electrophysiology or interventional cardiology as needed.

When to See a Doctor

You should speak with a cardiologist immediately if you:

• Have a personal or family history of sudden cardiac death or fainting
• Experience heart palpitations, chest pain, or dizziness
• Have been diagnosed with heart disease or arrhythmias
• Are managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol

Don’t wait for a warning sign that might never come. Early risk detection and personalized heart care could save your life.

Protect Your Heart Before It’s Too Late

If you or a loved one may be at risk for sudden cardiac death, schedule a consultation with Cardiology Care NYC. Our diagnostic tools and preventive care strategies are here to give you clarity, peace of mind, and control over your heart health.