16YO Telangana Girl Dies Of Cardiac Arrest: India's Rising Heart Health Crisis

In a tragic incident, 16-year-old Sri Nidhi, a Class X student from Kamareddy, Telangana, collapsed outside her private school due to cardiac arrest. A teacher noticed her and rushed her to a hospital, where doctors administered initial treatment, including CPR. However, when she did not respond, she was referred to another hospital, where she was declared dead. Another incident took place just days earlier in the same district, where an eight-year-old girl, Diksha, died of a heart attack while playing with her friends. 

There has been a sharp rise in mortality due to cardiac arrest among young people. A study by the Indian Heart Rhythm Society claims that sudden deaths from cardiac arrest have increased by 22% over the last 20 years. This sparked concern among people. 

Cardiac Arrest: Preventive Measures To Follow

Cardiac arrest happens when the heart abruptly stops beating. Heart Attack on the other hand happens when the heart muscle is suddenly damaged by an inadequate blood supply. While a patient suffering from a heart attack may have the time to get medical help, cardiac arrest is a life-threatening situation that requires immediate care. 

The patient suffering from cardiac arrest requires immediate CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and defibrillation. CPR keeps enough oxygen in the lungs and gets it to the brain until an electric shock restores a normal heart rhythm. Mandating CPR training in schools and colleges could be a lifesaving measure!

A common myth among individuals is that cardiac arrest happens only in people with heart disease. Contrary to the belief, cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, irrespective of their medical history.

The early symptoms of cardiac arrest are:- Chest Pain, Nausea, and Shortness Of Breath. Seek immediate medical help if you are showing any of these symptoms. 

Why Is Cardiac Arrest Increasing In Youth?

Cardiac arrest can occur due to heart palpitations (a fast or pounding heartbeat). In many cases of sudden cardiac arrest among youth, the individuals had been engaged in physical activities that affected their heart rate.

Incorporating daily exercise into our routine while avoiding overstraining the body can help reduce the risk of cardiac arrest. Gradually building stamina and allowing the body to adapt to physical activity is essential—this is why warming up before sports is mandatory for players. 

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, alcohol and drug consumption, and nutritional deficiencies (especially magnesium and potassium) increase the risk of cardiac arrest. 

Consuming magnesium-rich foods like millet, nuts, soy products, fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, and legumes may help reduce the risk of cardiac arrest.

Chronic stress also impacts heart health by increasing inflammation, which is linked to heart-related issues. Stress can lead to poor sleep, unhealthy eating habits, and reduced physical activity, all of which negatively affect overall well-being.