Cardiac Arrest

Articles

Oct 1

One of the leading causes of death in the United States is Sudden Cardiac Arrest (StopCardiacArrest.org). During the month of October, we aim to join in the effort to raise awareness about National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month. At first mention, many individuals assume that sudden cardiac arrest is the same as a heart attack, but they are in fact quite different. Sudden cardiac arrest is not related to blood flow, as with a heart attack. Heart attacks are often caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart in the veins or arteries. Sudden cardiac arrest is often related to a heart condition or sudden injury near the heart. It is important to differentiate the signs and symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest to improve the outcome of those in our communities and recognize it if it occurs.

What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Much like the name suggests, sudden cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops functioning. The heart operates using the electrical system within the body, and when there is an electrical disruption related to the heart, it can cause it to suddenly stop functioning altogether. When it stops beating, it also stops delivering blood throughout the body. Heart attacks are often caused by arterial blockage, which stops the flow of blood to the heart. When a heart attack occurs, it can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.

Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Arrest

It is fairly obvious that an individual is experiencing sudden cardiac arrest due to the intensity of symptoms. Typically individuals will collapse, stop breathing, lose consciousness entirely, and have no detectable pulse. This differs from individuals experiencing a heart attack because a heart attack does not necessarily render a person unconscious or unable to breathe. There are a few warning signs that may alert one of sudden cardiac arrest before it occurs which are developing weakness, intense heart palpitations, discomfort in the chest, or shortness of breath. Certainly, a combination of these initial symptoms could lead an individual to seek medical attention before it becomes worse, but sudden cardiac arrest can happen without any indication of a problem prior.

What Causes Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Many heart conditions contribute to the cause of sudden cardiac arrest. A diagnosis of coronary heart disease is commonly seen in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. Other heart problems such as congenital heart defects, cardiomyopathy, valvular heart disease, or heart arrhythmia may lead to sudden cardiac arrest when undiagnosed or untreated. Electric problems in the heart may occur in individuals without them knowing something is wrong. Any heart rhythm abnormalities can indicate that the heart’s electrical system is not functioning as it should. A rapid heart rate or a slow heart rate are both indications of a disruption in the body or the heart’s electrical system.

What Factors Influence Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

As the most common diagnosis leading to sudden cardiac arrest is coronary heart disease, many lifestyle factors present a risk. Smoking is known to increase the likelihood of developing coronary heart disease and many other health problems which affect other parts of the body. It is smart to avoid smoking to eliminate that risk. Other factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol also contribute to the development of coronary heart disease. Leading a sedentary lifestyle also does not allow the heart to get the exercise it needs to function properly and can lead to coronary heart disease as well. Diabetes and obesity also increase the potential of an individual experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.

Responding to Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Similar to a heart attack, quick action is necessary to prevent additional damage and save the life of the person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. The difference in response between a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest is that waiting any amount of time is not an option. The first minute after sudden cardiac arrest is critical. Because the blood flow stops suddenly, oxygen stops as well, which can quickly cause significant damage. One reason it is important for more individuals in our communities to understand how to recognize sudden cardiac arrest is that lives may be saved. If a person receives CPR in the first minute after sudden cardiac arrest, their chance of survival increases threefold. Using a defibrillator within the first three minutes results in a survival rate of 90% (StopCardiacAr rest.org). Another important aspect in recognizing and responding to sudden cardiac arrest is that individuals of any age may experience it, whereas a heart attack is much more likely in individuals over the age of 35. CPR is a life-saving skill and could sustain life in the case of sudden cardiac arrest until medical support arrives. Preparedness is the best way for us all to contribute and support National Sudden Cardiac Arrest Month.

If you or a loved one is known to be at risk of sudden cardiac arrest, learn more about resources to help your family gain preparedness skills. There are many organizations that offer tutorials and information about what to do in t he case of a cardiac emergency. When we work together, we can increase our community’s emergency preparedness and rate of bystander CPR and save lives. Be sure to contact your healthcare providers to receive regular heart screenings if you are concerned about coronary heart disease or sudden cardiac arrest.

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