Cardiac Arrest: Understanding the Condition and Its Risks

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops functioning properly, either by ceasing to beat or by beating in an ineffective manner. It is not simply the heart stopping, but often the result of dangerous heart rhythm disorders such as ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF). Under normal conditions, the heart beats in a coordinated and rhythmic way. However, during a life-threatening arrhythmia, the heart may quiver at an extremely rapid rate—sometimes over 200 or even 300 beats per minute—without effectively pumping blood throughout the body.

What Happens During Cardiac Arrest?

When the heart fails to pump blood efficiently, vital organs like the brain become deprived of oxygen-rich blood. This lack of oxygen can lead to serious complications within seconds. In fact, a person may lose consciousness within 10 seconds of the brain being cut off from blood flow. Within 30 seconds, breathing often stops, and seizures may occur due to the brain's distress.

The Timeline of Cardiac Arrest

Without immediate medical intervention, the situation deteriorates rapidly. Between two to five minutes after the onset of cardiac arrest, irreversible brain damage—known as brain death—can begin. During this time, the heart's electrical activity may progress from chaotic ventricular fibrillation to a state called electromechanical dissociation, where the heart's electrical signals are present, but the muscle contractions are too weak or disorganized to sustain life.

Why Cardiac Arrest Is Life-Threatening

Because of the speed at which the body shuts down during cardiac arrest, it is considered a medical emergency. The transition from a life-threatening arrhythmia to a complete loss of heart function can happen within minutes, making timely response—such as CPR and defibrillation—crucial for survival. Without urgent care, the chances of recovery drop significantly, which is why awareness, early recognition, and prompt action are essential in managing this condition.