What is the primary cause of sudden cardiac death?

Generally speaking, it is inaccurate to speak of a single primary cause for sudden cardiac death. Sudden cardiac death may be caused by factors such as age and gender differences, emotional stress and stress responses, unhealthy lifestyle habits, coronary artery atherosclerosis, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Age and Gender Differences

With aging, cardiac tissues gradually deteriorate and blood vessel elasticity declines, increasing the risk of arrhythmias. Particularly in men after middle age, the risk of sudden cardiac death significantly increases. Regular cardiovascular health checkups and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are recommended.

2. Emotional Stress and Stress Response

Extreme emotional fluctuations, such as intense excitement, anger, or fear, can overactivate the sympathetic nervous system, placing excessive strain on the heart and triggering arrhythmias. In individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, this can easily lead to sudden cardiac death. Learning stress management techniques—such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga—and seeking psychological counseling when necessary are advisable.

3. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Long-term smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and irregular eating patterns may trigger sudden cardiac death. Smoking can cause blood vessel spasms, while excessive alcohol intake can damage myocardial cells, promoting cardiovascular disease and increasing the risk of sudden cardiac death. It is important to quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, avoid secondhand smoke, and maintain a balanced diet.

4. Coronary Artery Atherosclerosis

Coronary artery atherosclerosis is associated with aging, hypertension, and other factors. Accumulation of plaques in the coronary arteries leads to vessel narrowing and reduced blood supply to the myocardium, which can easily result in sudden cardiac death. Symptoms may include chest pain and cold sweats. Patients may be prescribed medications such as enteric-coated aspirin tablets, atorvastatin calcium tablets, and metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets under medical supervision.

5. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may be triggered by genetic mutations or abnormal myocardial cell proliferation. Abnormal thickening of the ventricular walls and reduced ventricular cavity size impair the heart's diastolic function, potentially leading to heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Symptoms may also include exertional dyspnea and chest pain. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance in using medications such as felodipine extended-release tablets, spironolactone tablets, and coenzyme Q10 capsules to relieve symptoms.

In daily life, it is important to maintain emotional stability, avoid excessive fatigue, and adopt healthy lifestyle habits—such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and eating a balanced diet—to help prevent sudden cardiac death.