Sudden Cardiac Arrest: A Life-Threatening Emergency

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a critical medical emergency that poses a high risk of sudden death. It is classified as a life-threatening arrhythmia condition, where the heart unexpectedly stops beating effectively. This condition can occur without warning and requires immediate medical intervention to prevent fatality.

Understanding the Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest often affects individuals with underlying heart conditions, such as severe ischemic cardiomyopathy or inherited arrhythmia syndromes like Long QT Syndrome. These conditions disrupt the heart's normal electrical activity, increasing the likelihood of sudden and dangerous heart rhythm disturbances.

What Happens During Cardiac Arrest?

During sudden cardiac arrest, a person may experience abrupt loss of heart function. This can manifest as pulseless ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, or ventricular flutter—dangerous arrhythmias that prevent the heart from pumping blood effectively to the body's vital organs.

The Critical Impact on the Body

When the heart stops pumping, vital organs become deprived of oxygen-rich blood. The brain is especially vulnerable, and irreversible damage can occur if blood flow is interrupted for more than four minutes. After approximately ten minutes without oxygen, the risk of death significantly increases, even if resuscitation efforts are initiated.

Importance of Immediate Response

Given the time-sensitive nature of this condition, immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation are crucial for survival. Public awareness, access to automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and prompt emergency response play a vital role in improving outcomes for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest.