Cardiac arrest is a severe medical emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. The heart’s function is to pump blood throughout the body to supply oxygen and nutrients to our organs and tissues. When this function is interrupted, it leads to cardiac arrest.
Understanding Cardiac Arrest
As the heart stops beating during a cardiac arrest, the sudden absence of heart function, breathing and consciousness typically results. The interruption of blood flow can cause irreversible damage to the brain and other organs. If not treated immediately, cardiac arrest can result in death in a matter of minutes.
Cardiac arrest should not be confused with a heart attack, although the two are linked. A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, is caused by a blockage in a coronary artery, disrupting blood flow and damaging part of the heart muscle. This damage can potentially lead to a disruption in the heart’s electrical rhythms and, subsequently, cardiac arrest.
Causes of Cardiac Arrest
The cause of cardiac arrest is usually an abnormal heart rhythm called arrhythmia. The most common form of arrhythmia leading to cardiac arrest is known as ventricular fibrillation, where the lower chambers of the heart (the ventricles) beat irregularly and too fast, preventing blood from being pumped throughout the body.
Other potential causes of cardiac arrest include:
- Coronary artery disease
- Heart attack
- Electrocution or serious trauma, such as a car accident or a fall
- Drug abuse
Signs and Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac arrest generally happens without warning. Some of the most common signs and symptoms include sudden loss of responsiveness, no normal breathing, and no signs of pulse or heartbeat.
In some cases, people may experience a range of symptoms in the hour leading up to a cardiac arrest. These might include:
- A racing heartbeat
- Feeling dizzy or light-headed
- Shortness of breath
- Vomiting or nausea
- Chest pain
Importance of Immediate Treatment
Immediate treatment for cardiac arrest is crucial. The likelihood of survival diminishes greatly with each passing minute.
The most effective treatment is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) carried out immediately, combined with the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available. This device can send an electric shock to the heart to try and restore a normal rhythm.
To sum up, cardiac arrest is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. If you witness a cardiac arrest, call emergency services immediately, and start administering CPR if you are trained to do so. Recognizing the signs and understanding what to do in such a situation can potentially save a life. Make sure to seek medical assistance, even if the person seems to recover, to prevent further complications.