Know the Warning Signs of SADS (Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes)

Family history of:

• unexpected, unexplained sudden death under age 40.
• Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
• unexplained seizure disorder
• single car accident
• drowning - in someone who knew how to swim
  

Personal history of

• Fainting or seizure, especially during exercise, excitement or startle.
• Consistent or unusual chest pain &/or shortness of breath during exercise.
  

You or your child should be seen by a doctor if you have any of these warning signs. All children should have the Risk Assessment questionnaire completed—and be checked by a doctor if they answer “yes” to any question—before they enter school and before they participate in organized sports programs.

Facts About

Sudden Cardiac Death in the Young

1.      Children and young people who die from cardiac arrhythmias usually appear healthy, vital and normal.

2.      Most Sudden Cardiac Death in children is due to hereditary conditions and, therefore, more than one family member will be at risk. It is extremely important that all family members be tested once one family member is diagnosed.

3.      The symptoms of genetic arrhythmias (like LQTS, CPVT, Brugada) are frequently misdiagnosed as vasovagal syncope, asthma or epilepsy without any cardiac evaluation. Thus, the opportunity to diagnose and treat SADS conditions is missed.

4.      Most cardiac arrhythmias and structural defects that may cause sudden death in the young are treatable. With treatment, people with these conditions often have normal life spans and lifestyles.

The SADS Foundation is dedicated to saving the lives and supportting the families of children and young adults who are genetically predisposed to sudden death due to heart rhythm abnormalities. More information at: www.StopSADS.org or call 1-801-272-3023.