Cardiac Arrest Symptoms You Should Never Ignore – Wellsun Medicity

 What Is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest is a sudden condition where the heart unexpectedly stops beating. When this happens, blood flow to the brain, lungs, and other vital organs stops immediately. Without quick treatment, especially CPR and defibrillation, cardiac arrest can be fatal within minutes. It often occurs without warning, making early awareness extremely important. 

Difference Between Cardiac Arrest and Heart Attack

·         Many people confuse the two, but they are different:

·         Heart Attack: Blood flow to the heart is blocked, but the heart usually continues to beat.

·         Cardiac Arrest: The heart stops beating suddenly due to electrical malfunction.

·         A heart attack can sometimes lead to cardiac arrest, which is why recognizing symptoms matters.

Major Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest You Should Never Ignore

 

1. Sudden Collapse

The person may fall to the ground instantly and become unresponsive. This is often the first and most obvious sign.

2. No Pulse or Very Weak Pulse

When the heart stops, the pulse disappears completely or becomes extremely faint. Quick checking of the pulse is crucial.

3. No Breathing or Abnormal Breathing

Breathing may stop or become irregular (gasping). This is called agonal breathing and should be treated as a sign of cardiac arrest.

4. Loss of Consciousness

The person becomes unconscious and does not respond when called, shaken, or stimulated. 

5. Chest Discomfort (Before Collapse)

Some people may experience chest pain, tightness, or pressure a few moments before arrest happens.

6. Dizziness or Sudden Fainting

A sudden drop in blood flow can cause the person to feel light-headed and faint.

7. Extreme Fatigue or Weakness

Sometimes the body gives a brief warning through unusual tiredness or weakness.

Common Causes of Cardiac Arrest

·         Several medical conditions can trigger sudden cardiac arrest:

·         Severe heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias)

·         Coronary artery disease

·         Heart attack complications

·         Cardiomyopathy (weak heart muscles)

·         Congenital heart defects

·         Severe electrolyte imbalances

·         Electrical shock or trauma

·         Respiratory failure

·         Drug overdose

Understanding these causes helps in prevention and early medical care.

Who Is at Higher Risk? 

People with the following conditions are more likely to experience cardiac arrest:

Previous heart attack

Family history of sudden cardiac death 

High blood pressure

Diabetes 

Smoking

Obesity

High cholesterol

Sedentary lifestyle

Chronic kidney disease

What To Do in Case of Suspected Cardiac Arrest

Quick action can save a life. Follow these steps immediately: 

1. Call Emergency Services

Dial the local emergency number for an ambulance without delay.

2. Start CPR Immediately

Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (100–120 compressions per minute).

This keeps oxygen flowing to vital organs.

3. Use an AED if Available

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can shock the heart back into rhythm. Many public places now have AED machines.

4. Continue CPR Until Help Arrives

Do not stop CPR unless the person regains consciousness or medical support arrives.

How to Reduce the Risk of Cardiac Arrest

You can lower the risk with healthy lifestyle habits:

Control blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol

Quit smoking

Exercise regularly

Maintain healthy weight

Eat a balanced diet

Manage stress

Go for regular heart checkups

Early diagnosis and preventive care can reduce life-threatening emergencies.

Conclusion

Cardiac arrest can strike without warning, but recognizing symptoms early and acting

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