Understanding the Biggest Cause of Cardiac Arrest

Introduction

Cardiac arrest is a serious medical emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating. This leads to a cessation of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. If not treated immediately, it can be fatal within minutes.

What is the Biggest Cause of Cardiac Arrest?

The leading cause of cardiac arrest is ventricular fibrillation (VF), a severe electrical malfunction of the heart. VF leads to chaotic, uncoordinated heart activity, preventing it from pumping blood effectively.

Common Underlying Conditions Leading to Cardiac Arrest

Several medical conditions can trigger ventricular fibrillation and cause cardiac arrest:

1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) – The most common cause. Blocked arteries reduce blood supply to the heart, increasing the risk of lethal arrhythmias.
2. Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) – A sudden blockage in a coronary artery can lead to electrical instability in the heart, resulting in cardiac arrest.
3. Cardiomyopathy – A weakened or thickened heart muscle can disrupt normal heartbeat.
4. Electrolyte Imbalances – Abnormal levels of potassium, calcium, or magnesium can interfere with electrical signaling in the heart.
5. Severe Arrhythmias – Fast or irregular heart rhythms, particularly ventricular tachycardia, can escalate into ventricular fibrillation.
6. Congenital Heart Defects – Some individuals are born with structural heart abnormalities that predispose them to cardiac arrest.
7. Drug Overdose or Poisoning – Certain medications, recreational drugs, or toxins can disrupt heart function.
8. Severe Blood Loss or Shock – A significant drop in blood pressure or oxygen levels can cause the heart to stop.

Prevention and Emergency Response

• Recognizing symptoms: Sudden collapse, no pulse, no breathing, and loss of consciousness.
• Immediate action: Call emergency services and perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) to maintain circulation.
• Use of an AED (Automated External Defibrillator): A defibrillator can restore a normal heartbeat if used promptly.
• Long-term prevention: Managing risk factors like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and adhering to prescribed treatments for any existing heart conditions.

Conclusion

Cardiac arrest is a life-threatening event, but understanding its biggest cause—ventricular fibrillation due to underlying heart conditions—helps in prevention and rapid intervention. Knowing how to react in an emergency situation can save lives.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines on Cardiac Arrest

1. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiac-arrest
2. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIR.0000000000001194
3. https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines/algorithms
4. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
5. https://cpr.heart.org/-/media/cpr-files/cpr-guidelines-files/highlights/hghlghts_2020_ecc_guidelines_english.pdf

2. European Resuscitation Council Guidelines

1. https://cprguidelines.eu/guidelines-2021
2. https://www.erc.edu/
3. https://cprguidelines.eu/
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0300957221000551
5. https://www.resuscitationjournal.com/article/S0300-9572(21)00064-2/fulltext