Sudden Cardiac Arrest: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

What is a Cardiac Arrest?

In short, sudden cardiac arrest occurs when heart suddenly stops functioning. According to a common opinion, it differs from a heart attack, as it occurs when the blood flow to a specific portion of the heart is interrupted. On the other hand sudden cardiac arrest is caused by an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) which blocks blood flow. Sudden cardiac arrest can be fatal if cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or defibrillation is not provided promptly.

How common is Cardiac Arrest?

Unfortunately, in India, someone loses their life due to sudden cardiac arrest every minute. Although this is a serious and common problem, awareness about it among Indians is still very low.

What are the symptoms of Cardiac Arrest?

Recognising cardiac arrest symptoms can save precious time during an emergency. The primary symptoms are sudden and severe:

• Sudden collapse
• Absence of pulse
• Absence of breathing
• Loss of consciousness

Sometimes, other cardiac arrest symptoms precede sudden cardiac arrest, such as:

• Chest Discomfort
• Shortness of Breath
• Weakness
• Palpitations (fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart)

Since cardiac arrest symptoms aren't always noticeable, SCA can strike unpredictably and without warning.

What happens right before Cardiac Arrest?

Just before a sudden cardiac arrest, you may experience symptoms such as severe chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeats, unexplained wheezing, and lightheadedness. Anyone witnessing these signs should contact emergency medical services immediately.

What causes Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest causes can be numerous and varied, often involving complex interactions between the heart and other bodily systems.

• Some of the primary cardiac arrest causes includes coronary artery disease, where the blood supply to the heart is blocked or narrowed, leading to heart tissue damage.
• Other significant causes include arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats that can disrupt the heart’s normal rhythm and function.
• Severe physical stress, such as a major injury, an electric shock, or extreme physical activity, can also cause cardiac arrest.
• Additionally, conditions such as cardiomyopathy (heart muscle disease), congenital heart defects, and electrolyte imbalances can also be a significant cardiac arrest cause.

It is crucial to recognize these risk factors to help in prevention and timely treatment.

What are the risk factors for Cardiac Arrest?

Certain factors increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest:

• Family history of coronary artery disease
• Smoking
• High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels
• Obesity and Inactive Lifestyle
• Diabetes

In addition to these factors, previous episodes of a sudden cardiac arrest or heart attack, personal or family history of other heart diseases, such as heart rate disturbances, heart failure, congenital heart defects, aging, and use of illegal drugs, such as cocaine or amphetamines, can also increase the risk.

What are the complications of Cardiac Arrest?

Since in sudden cardiac arrest the blood flow to the brain is reduced, complications such as irreversible brain damage and eventual death can occur if the normal rhythm isn't promptly restored.

How is Cardiac Arrest diagnosed?

Recognizing the cardiac arrest symptoms and seeking immediate medical attention are crucial in treating this condition. An immediate CPR and use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) can save lives by restoring heart rhythm.

How is Cardiac Arrest treated?

Emergency cardiac arrest treatment includes performing CPR and administering an electric shock to the heart using an AED. Timely and appropriate medical care can significantly improve survival outcomes.

Can Cardiac Arrest be prevented?

While sudden cardiac arrest can happen unexpectedly, certain measures can help reduce its risk:

• Eating a balanced diet
• Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider
• Avoiding Tobacco and Smoking
• Regular Screening for Heart Disease
• Maintaining controlled Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels

In case of a risk of cardiac arrest, healthcare providers may recommend implantation of a Cardioverter (ICD) defibrillator or the purchase of an AED for home use.

What can I expect if I have Cardiac Arrest?

If you experience cardiac arrest, you may suddenly lose consciousness and a complete absence of breathing or pulse. Immediate medical intervention is required. If left untreated, cardiac arrest can be fatal within minutes. However, with an immediate CPR and defibrillation, there is still a chance of survival and recovery, although the effects may be long-lasting depending on the speed of treatment. The best results as possible require emergency medical care and subsequent treatment.

Can a Person Survive After Cardiac Arrest?

Survival after sudden cardiac arrest largely depends on prompt treatment. Every minute without defibrillation can reduce the chance of survival by 7% to 10%.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Cardiac Arrest Vs a Heart Attack?

Although both involve heart dysfunction, they are not the same. A cardiac arrest is an interruption in the electrical activity of the heart, while a heart attack is a circulation problem in which blood flow to parts of the heart is blocked.

Is Cardiac Arrest the same as Sudden Cardiac Death?

No, they are different. While SCA refers to the sudden cessation of heart function, sudden cardiac death refers to death resulting from SCA.

Is Cardiac Arrest painful?

Most victims of SCA lose consciousness quickly and do not report any pain. However, some survivors may recall feeling discomfort or chest pain shortly before the event.

Conclusion

Sudden cardiac arrest is a medical emergency that requires quick thinking and swift action. Being aware of symptoms, understanding of the cause and understanding of the treatment method can mean the difference between life and death.

While we hope you never have to face such a situation, preparing for it can be a lifesaver –quite literally! Taking care of your heart health is important by getting regular medical check-ups, including complete blood tests. This is where Metropolis Healthcare steps in with its advanced diagnostic labs across India. With their convenient at-home sample collection and reliable pathology testing services, prioritizing your heart health has never been easier!