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01 Nov 2021 | 04:56 PM (IST)

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Cardiac arrest

Description

In a cardiac arrest, the vital blood supply needed by the heart to function aptly is denied. This, in turn, may also affect the supply to the brain and can be harmful to the body. Fifteen percent of the deaths in the western countries can be attributed to cardiac arrest further to this men are more prone to it than women until they reach the age of 85 years and chances of getting a cardiac arrest among both genders becomes equal.

Causes and Risk Factors

The common causes are:

1. Heart diseases among adults such as ischemic heart disease and myocardial infarction

2. Non-trauma related bleeding such as gastrogenic bleeding

3. Overdose of drugs

4. Drowning

5. Pulmonary embolism

Risk factors include:

1. Sedentary lifestyle with no exercise

2. Family history of cardiac arrest

3. Lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and obesity

4. Smoking and especially chain smoking

Signs and Symptoms

Some symptoms include:

1. Fatigue

2. Lightheaded and dizziness

3. Chest pains that are not associated with flu

4. Constant shortness of breath

5. Heart palpations or irregular heartbeats

6. Sudden loss of responsiveness

7. Abnormal breathing

8. Absence of a pulse

9. Sudden unexplained fainting that may be accompanied by seizures

10. Loss of consciousness

Investigations

In case you survive a cardiac arrest, your doctor will carry several tests to find out the exact cause.

1. Blood tests include cardiac enzyme test and electrolyte test

2. Electrocardiogram: Includes ECG tests

3. Imaging tests: It include x-rays and scans

Treatment

1. CPR: Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation is important and critical in treating cardiac arrest.

2. Defibrillation: This procedure momentarily stops the heart and the chaotic rhythm. In most cases this process allows the heart to resume its normal rhythm.

3. Surgery includes coronary bypass surgery

Prevention

1. Stop smoking

2. Exercise regularly

3. Start eating healthy

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Disclaimer

Tata 1mg's sole intention is to ensure that its consumers get information that is expert-reviewed, accurate and trustworthy. However, the information contained herein should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified physician. The information provided here is for informational purposes only. This may not cover all possible side effects, drug interactions or warnings or alerts. Please consult your doctor and discuss all your queries related to any disease or medicine. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.