Family history is another important consideration. People who have close relatives who died suddenly at a young age, particularly from unexplained cardiac causes, should discuss their risk with a healthcare professional. Certain inherited heart rhythm disorders and structural heart conditions may remain undiagnosed until a serious event occurs.
3. The importance of timely emergency treatment
When sudden cardiac arrest occurs, every minute matters. The person may collapse, become unresponsive, and stop breathing normally. Bystanders should call emergency services immediately and begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. An automated external defibrillator (AED), if available, should be used as soon as possible by following its voice instructions.