Cardiac arrest: What it is, why it happens and why the first few minutes are crucial

Cardiac arrest is one of the most serious medical emergencies and one of the leading causes of sudden death worldwide.

It occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, cutting off blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Within minutes, the lack of oxygen can cause irreversible damage and, if not treated immediately, death.

What causes cardiac arrest?

Cardiac arrest can be caused by many factors, but it is usually related to electrical disorders of the heart. Here are some of the most common causes:

The most common cause is an irregular and dangerous heart rhythm such as:

2. Myocardial infarction (heart attack)

A blockage in the arteries of the heart can cause serious damage and lead to cardiac arrest. In many cases, the arrest occurs during or immediately after a heart attack.

3. Undiagnosed heart disease

Cardiomyopathy, heart enlargement, congenital heart defects, and genetic diseases that affect the rhythm are among the causes that are often discovered only after an episode.

Cardiac arrest can also occur for reasons not directly related to heart disease, such as:

5. Extreme physical and emotional stress

In rare cases, extreme emotional or physical stress can cause an excessive reaction of the nervous system and lead to cardiac arrest, especially in predisposed individuals.

Symptoms that precede cardiac arrest

Often the arrest occurs without warning, but in some cases it is preceded by:

But even when they appear, symptoms can be very rapid and vague.

Why are the first minutes crucial?

Without blood circulation, the brain begins to be damaged after 4–6 minutes.

Rapid intervention is vital:

The faster the intervention, the higher the chances of survival.

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