LV Dysfunction/Sudden Cardiac Death

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LV Dysfunction/Sudden Cardiac Death

Left Ventricular Dysfunction is one of the more prominant reasons for Sudden Cardiac Death to occur. The procedure to detect Sudden Cardiac Death is conducted by checking for symptoms that run concurrent with Left Ventricular Dysfunction. 

Healthy Life Screening's technicians apply acoustic gel around the left portion of the chest and use a painless instrument called a transducer to evaluate the heart wall motion. The individual lies down on his or her back while the screen is performed and an ejection fraction rate is measured. If the ejection fraction rate falls marginally below the rate of a normal ejection (normal ejection fraction is 50%), than the individual is considered to be at risk for Left Ventricular Dysfunction, and has a greater chance of falling victim to Sudden Cardiac Death.

Disease Info

Sudden Cardiac Death, also called Cardiac Arrest, is an unexpected abrupt loss of the heart function and causes over half of all heart disease deaths. Heart disease happens to be the No.1 killer among Americans. Sudden Cardiac Death happens so fast, and without warning, that 500,000 people die each year in United States before they even reach the hospital. This is why early detection is key into stopping this disorder from claiming even more lives.

Unfortunately, many individuals are unaware of the term Sudden Cardiac Death because of the terminology used in the media. The media mistakenly uses the term “massive heart attack” where Sudden Cardiac Death should be used. The term heart attack is no more than death of the heart muscle tissue due to loss of blood supply going to the heart, and does not necessarily result in death. Contrary to the popular belief these two terms are not the same.

There are several factors that can have a role in bringing about Sudden Cardiac Death, but Left Ventricle Dysfunction is one of the more prominent risks. An ejection fraction is the percentage of blood that is ejected out of the heart per heartbeat. A normal ejection fraction is 50%, compared to 30%, where significant Left Ventricular Dysfunction begins. Sudden Cardiac Death can occur abruptly and without warning, which is why early detection of Left Ventricular Dysfunction is so vital in preventing Sudden Cardiac Death. Luckily, a simple, non-invasive ultrasound screen can detect Left Ventricular Dysfunction by measuring the ejection fraction of the left ventricle.

Warning Signs

Unfortunately, Sudden Cardiac Death happens so fast and unexpectedly that the warning signs occur after the event already has taken place. It presents itself with a lack of responsiveness and a discontinuation of normal breathing.

LV Dysfunction warning signs:

1. Shortness of Breath 
2. Swelling of the ankle or feet
3. Difficulty laying flat
4. Chest pain or discomfort after activity 

If these symptoms are apparent do not hesitate to call 911, because with LV Dysfunction/Sudden Cardiac Death seconds separate living from dying. Make use of the AED immediately if available.

Risk Factors

Individuals who are at risk for LV Dysfuction/Sudden Cardiac Death are
individuals who are or have a history of:

• Hypertension (High blood pressure)
• Congestive heart failure
• Previous Heart Attack 
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Smokers
• Overweight
• Heart rhythm problems
• Inactivity
• Aging
• Fainting for no reason
• Low ejection fraction
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Using illegal drugs
• Family history of heart disease

Call 1-866-523-LIFE (5433) to get more information on Healthy Life Screening.