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\nWays to prevent death due to sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) differ depending on whether:
\nIf you've already had SCA, you're at high risk of having it again. Research shows that an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) reduces the chances of dying from a second SCA. An ICD is surgically placed under the skin in your chest or abdomen. The device has wires with electrodes on the ends that connect to your heart's chambers. The ICD monitors your heartbeat.
\nIf the ICD detects a dangerous heart rhythm, it gives an electric shock to restore the heart's normal rhythm. Your doctor may give you medicine to limit irregular heartbeats that can trigger the ICD.
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The illustration shows the location of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator in the upper chest. The electrodes are inserted into the heart through a vein.
\nAn ICD isn't the same as a pacemaker. The devices are similar, but they have some differences. Pacemakers give off low-energy electrical pulses. They're often used to treat less dangerous heart rhythms, such as those that occur in the upper chambers of the heart. Most new ICDs work as both pacemakers and ICDs.
\nIf you have severe ischemic heart disease, you're at increased risk for SCA. This is especially true if you've recently had a heart attack.
\nYour doctor may prescribe a type of medicine called a beta blocker to help lower your risk for SCA. Your doctor also may discuss beginning statin treatment if you have an elevated risk for developing heart disease or having a stroke. Doctors usually prescribe statins for people who have:
\nYour doctor also may prescribe other medications to:
\nTake all medicines regularly, as your doctor prescribes. Don\u2019t change the amount of your medicine or skip a dose unless your doctor tells you to. You should still follow a heart-healthy lifestyle, even if you take medicines to treat your heart disease.
\nOther treatments for coronary heart disease\u2014such as percutaneous coronary intervention, also known as coronary angioplasty, or coronary artery bypass grafting\u2014also may lower your risk for SCA. Your doctor also may recommend an ICD if you\u2019re at high risk for SCA.
\nIschemic heart disease seems to be the cause of most SCAs in adults. Heart disease also is a major risk factor for angina (chest pain or discomfort) and heart attack, and it contributes to other heart problems.
\nFollowing a heart-healthy lifestyle can help you lower your risk for heart disease, SCA, and other heart problems. A heart-healthy lifestyle includes:
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