Information About SADS Conditions
Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes (SADS) are a group of heart conditions that can cause sudden death in young, apparently healthy individuals. These conditions are primarily genetic and affect the heart in two main ways: either through the heart muscle or the heart’s electrical system.
Each of these conditions has unique characteristics, but they all share the risk of causing arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats. These irregular heartbeats can be life-threatening, but with proper diagnosis and management, individuals with SADS conditions can lead healthy and active lives.
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC)
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a rare but serious inherited heart condition that affects the heart muscle, leading to abnormal heart rhythms and, in some cases, sudden cardiac arrest.
Brugada Syndrome
Brugada syndrome is a rare but serious inherited heart condition that affects the way electrical signals are transmitted in the heart. This can cause an irregular heartbeat, which can be life-threatening.
Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT)
Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT) is a rare but serious inherited heart condition that affects the heart’s electrical system, leading to abnormal heart rhythms and, in some cases, sudden cardiac arrest.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a type of heart muscle disease that causes the heart chambers (ventricles) to thin and stretch, growing larger. It typically starts in the heart’s main pumping chamber (left ventricle). Dilated cardiomyopathy makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes thick, making it harder for the heart to pump blood. This thickening of the heart muscle can lead to problems such as shortness of breath, chest pain, light-headedness, and in some cases, heart failure.
Long QT Syndrome (LQTS)
Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) is caused by a problem with the electrical system of your heart, which controls the timing of your heartbeats. It is usually an inherited condition, but can also be acquired due to certain medications, electrolyte imbalances, or other medical conditions.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)
Sudden cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops beating. A sudden cardiac arrest is most often caused by a heart rhythm abnormality called ventricular fibrillation. In young, healthy people, often the cause of a sudden cardiac arrest can not be determined.