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cardiac arrest

Головна / Dictionary / cardiac arrest

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, leading to the cessation of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. This results in a loss of consciousness and the absence of a pulse. If not treated immediately, cardiac arrest can lead to death within minutes.

Causes of Cardiac Arrest:

  1. Heart-related issues:
    • Coronary artery disease
    • Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
    • Arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms), especially ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia
    • Heart failure
    • Cardiomyopathy (weakened heart muscle)
  2. Non-heart-related causes:
    • Severe trauma or injury
    • Electrocution
    • Drowning
    • Drug overdose
    • Severe blood loss or shock

Symptoms:

  • Sudden loss of consciousness
  • No pulse or heartbeat
  • No breathing or abnormal breathing (gasping)
  • Dilated pupils

Immediate Actions:

Cardiac arrest requires immediate intervention to increase the chances of survival:

  1. Call emergency services immediately (911 or equivalent).
  2. Start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) to maintain blood flow to the brain and organs.
    • Perform chest compressions at a rate of around 100-120 compressions per minute, pushing down about 2 inches deep.
    • If trained, provide rescue breaths.
  3. Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if available, which can deliver a shock to the heart to attempt to restore a normal rhythm.

Treatment:

  • Defibrillation: In cases of certain arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation, an electrical shock from an AED can help restart the heart.
  • Medications: After the initial resuscitation, medications such as epinephrine or antiarrhythmic drugs may be used.
  • Post-cardiac arrest care: Once the heart is restarted, care in an intensive care unit is often necessary to address underlying causes and prevent further damage.

The survival rate depends on how quickly CPR and defibrillation are provided. Prompt medical intervention significantly improves the chances of survival and recovery.

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