Cardiac Arrest: Understanding the Emergency

Introduction

Cardiac arrest is a sudden and life-threatening medical emergency in which the heart stops beating effectively. This results in an immediate loss of blood circulation to vital organs, including the brain, and can lead to death if not treated quickly. It is different from a heart attack , which is caused by a blockage in the coronary arteries but does not always result in the heart stopping.

Causes of Cardiac Arrest

Several conditions can lead to cardiac arrest, including: - Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) – The most common cause is ventricular fibrillation (VF), where the heart quivers instead of pumping. - Coronary artery disease (CAD) – Narrowed or blocked arteries can cause electrical instability in the heart. - Heart failure – Weakening of the heart muscle can lead to arrhythmias and collapse. - Electrolyte imbalances – Low potassium or magnesium levels can trigger dangerous arrhythmias. - Drug overdose or poisoning – Some medications or substances can disrupt heart rhythm.

Signs and Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest happens suddenly and has the following key signs: - Loss of consciousness - No pulse - No breathing or gasping for air - Unresponsiveness

Immediate Response: What to Do

Acting quickly can save a life. Follow these key steps: 1. Call emergency services (911 in the US, 112 in Europe) immediately. 2. Start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) – Perform chest compressions (push hard and fast in the center of the chest at about 100-120 beats per minute). 3. Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) – If available, follow the instructions to deliver a shock that can restore normal heart rhythm.

Prevention and Long-Term Management

Reducing the risk of cardiac arrest includes: - Managing risk factors – Control high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol. - Healthy lifestyle – Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and quitting smoking help maintain heart health. - Medical devices – Patients at high risk may need an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) or pacemaker.

Conclusion

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention . Knowing CPR and how to use an AED can save lives. Prevention includes managing cardiovascular risk factors and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Source recommendations

1. American Heart Association Guidelines

1. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-and-statements
2. https://www.heart.org/
3. https://professional.heart.org/en/guidelines-statements
4. https://cpr.heart.org/en/resuscitation-science/cpr-and-ecc-guidelines
5. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults

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

3. European Society of Cardiology Guidelines

1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Clinical-Practice-Guidelines
2. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/42/34/3227/6358713
3. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines
4. https://academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article/44/39/4043/7238227
5. https://www.escardio.org/