Cardiac arrest is the sudden, unexpected loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness. It occurs when the heart's electrical system malfunctions, causing an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) that stops blood flow to the brain, lungs, and other organs. Without immediate treatment, death occurs within minutes and it requies sudden hospital services and atleast sudden home nursing services.
Key Differences from a Heart Attack
- Heart Attack: A circulation problem caused by blocked arteries reducing blood flow to the heart muscle.
- Cardiac Arrest: An electrical problem disrupting the heart's rhythm, causing it to stop pumping entirely.
Why Cardiac Arrest Happens: 6 Primary Causes
1. Ventricular Fibrillation (VF)
- 80% of cases.
- Chaotic electrical impulses make the heart quiver (fibrillate) instead of pumping blood.
- Triggers: Scar tissue from prior heart attacks, cardiomyopathy, or genetic disorders.
2. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
- Plaque buildup in arteries restricts blood flow, damaging heart tissue and disrupting electrical signals.
- Accounts for 70% of cardiac arrest cases.
3. Structural Heart Abnormalities
- Congenital defects: Abnormal heart valves or enlarged heart (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).
- Acquired conditions: Heart failure or inflammation (myocarditis).
4. Electrolyte Imbalances
- Critical minerals (potassium, magnesium) regulate heart rhythm. Imbalances can trigger arrest:
- Low potassium: Causes erratic electrical activity.
- High potassium: Prevents heart muscle depolarization.
