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UAE: 33-year-old survives 3 cardiac arrests in one hour; here's why regular heart checks are essential

Cardiologists recommend that healthy adults undergo cardiac checks every two to four years, particularly those 40 years old and above

A 33-year-old expat miraculously survived three sudden cardiac arrests in just one hour, thanks to the swift action of the medical team at Aster Clinic in Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO). The patient, who was brought in with severe chest pain, was revived thrice through a series of life-saving interventions.

The patient arrived conscious but in distress at the clinic’s emergency room. After an initial ECG and echocardiogram screening, the expat suddenly collapsed during the procedure, marking the first of three cardiac arrests.

Without delay, the clinic’s emergency response team (ERT)—comprising doctors, nurses, and operational staff—sprang into action. They immediately performed CPR and administered defibrillator shocks. After three cycles of CPR and two shocks, the patient’s pulse was restored.

However, the situation escalated when the patient experienced two more cardiac arrests within minutes, just as preparations were being made for his transfer to a hospital.

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Each time the patient's heart stopped, the medical team swiftly performed resuscitation techniques, bringing him back to life for the second and third time. Their persistence and adherence to medical protocols proved instrumental in saving the patient's life.

'Early intervention is crucial'

Such cases of heart failure could have been prevented if screenings were done and doctors were able to see the patient earlier.

Ameer Hussain, a 38-year-old kitchen helper in Sharjah, began experiencing severe chest pain that worsened over several hours. With a family history of heart disease, — his father suffered a heart attack at 45 — Ameer sought medical attention at a local clinic. Tests revealed elevated troponin levels, indicating possible heart damage, so he was referred to Thumbay University Hospital.

Coronary angiography revealed some severe artery narrowing, so Ameer underwent a procedure with three stents placed in his heart to restore blood flow. Post-surgery, he was prescribed medications and advised to rest.

Dr Sony Manuel M, consultant interventional cardiologist at Thumbay University Hospital, said: “Early intervention is crucial, especially in younger patients with a family history of heart disease. Recognising warning signs and seeking prompt care can significantly impact outcomes. Moving forward, maintaining a healthy lifestyle will be essential for his heart health.”

Importance of regular heart check-ups

As cardiovascular diseases continue to be a leading health concern worldwide, medical professionals stress the importance of regular heart screenings, especially for adults aged 40 and above. Cardiologists recommend that healthy adults undergo cardiac checks every two to four years, particularly those aged 40 and older.

“If the patient has a family history of premature ischaemic heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, or hypertension, this check-up should be done before they turn 40,” said Dr Mohamed Ahmed Mohamed Fathi, cardiologist at Medcare Hospital Sharjah. “Patients should get their heart checked at any age if they experience chest pain, especially during physical activities, as this could be an early sign of coronary blockages.”

Understanding heart blockages

“Not everyone has significant blockages in their heart. However, artery blockages are classified as follows: mild stenosis (less than 50 percent blockage), moderate stenosis (50 to 69 percent blockage), and severe stenosis (70 to 99 percent blockage), which can be fatal,” said Dr Latifa Al Khouri, consultant cardiologist at Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi.

She added that the severity and danger depend on the location of the blockage—whether it is in a main coronary artery or a smaller accessory branch. “Blockage of 70 per cent or more is typically considered life-threatening.”

Identifying risk factors

For those with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, doctors advise following the same check-up frequency as healthy individuals, provided they are asymptomatic. Dr Fathi suggested more frequent screenings every three to six months to monitor and manage risk factors effectively.

“People with a family history of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, or hypertension should undergo health check-ups earlier than the general population due to a higher risk of heart attacks and atherosclerosis. Heart screenings for these individuals should occur every four to six months to monitor comorbidities,” said Dr Fathi.

Warning signs

Doctors highlighted several critical warning signs that require immediate medical evaluation, even in individuals without a previous history of heart problems.

“Chest pain or discomfort, characterized by pressure, squeezing, or fullness, can be a significant warning sign of a heart issue. Sudden shortness of breath, whether during exertion or at rest, may also indicate a serious condition,” said Dr Ahmad Assaf, specialist cardiology at Aster Clinic, Fujairah.

Dr Assaf also emphasized the importance of recognizing discomfort that radiates to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach. “Accompanying symptoms like nausea or vomiting, especially when linked to chest pain, as well as light-headedness or dizziness that could lead to fainting, are critical warning signs. Unexplained fatigue and profuse sweating, particularly when experienced with other symptoms, are further indicators that something may be wrong. If any of these symptoms arise, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately,” said Dr Assaf.

Recommended tests, lifestyle modifications

The cardiologists unanimously agree on the importance of routine heart health tests, which may include blood pressure screenings, cholesterol tests, electrocardiograms (ECGs), and echocardiograms. “These tests are usually part of regular cardiac check-ups unless specific symptoms prompt further investigation,” said Dr Al Khouri.

“Lifestyle modifications like a healthy diet and regular exercise should complement regular heart health checks to maintain optimal cardiovascular health,” said Dr Fathi adding encouraging even asymptomatic individuals to have their heart health evaluated regularly to catch any potential issues early.

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