Energy Drinks: A Hidden Risk for Those with Genetic Heart Conditions

New Study reveals that people with a history of genetic heart diseases are at high risk of cardiac arrest as a result of drinking energy drinks. Scroll down to read.

Sudden cardiac arrest is a condition where the heart suddenly stops beating, which can happen without warning. A new study conducted at Mayo Clinic reveals that drinking energy drinks may increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest in people with genetic heart diseases. Energy drinks contain ingredients such as caffeine, taurine, and guarana, which can affect heart rate and blood pressure and cause heart rhythm problems.

Increased Awareness of Risks

In recent years, awareness of the potential dangers of energy drinks has increased, especially among people with genetic heart diseases such as Long QT Syndrome, Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Tachycardia, and Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation. Long QT Syndrome is characterized by prolonged heartbeats returning to normal, Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Tachycardia involves rapid and irregular heartbeats due to stress or physical activity, and Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation includes irregular heartbeats without a clear reason.

Study Findings

The study aimed to examine the connection between consuming energy drinks and sudden cardiac arrest in individuals with genetic heart diseases. Medical records of 144 people who survived cardiac arrest were examined, with a focus on energy drink consumption at the time of the event. Among the 144 subjects, seven experienced sudden cardiac arrest shortly after consuming an energy drink.

Details of Specific Cases

Among the seven subjects who experienced cardiac arrest after drinking energy drinks, three consumed energy drinks regularly, while the rest drank them infrequently. In all cases, the cardiac event occurred within hours of consumption. The study found that 5% of the subjects who survived cardiac arrest experienced the event after drinking energy drinks.

Recommendations and Future Studies

The findings suggest that drinking energy drinks may pose a substantial risk to people with genetic heart diseases. As a result, it is recommended for individuals with these conditions to avoid consuming energy drinks and to be aware of the potential risks involved. Furthermore, additional studies should be conducted to better understand these risks and to develop clear guidelines regarding energy drink consumption.