Cardiac Arrest: Causes & Symptoms

Synopsis

When it comes to heart health, few emergencies are as urgent and life-threatening as cardiac arrest. Sudden and unpredictable, it can strike anyone, anytime—often without warning. Understanding what cardiac arrest is, recognizing its symptoms early, and knowing when and where to seek help can make all the difference.

What is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest is a sudden loss of heart function that occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions. This causes the heart to stop beating effectively, which halts blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Unlike a heart attack, which is caused by blocked arteries, cardiac arrest is primarily an electrical failure.
Without immediate intervention—usually CPR and defibrillation—sudden cardiac arrest can lead to death within minutes. That’s why understanding the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest is crucial. A heart attack may lead to cardiac arrest, but they are not the same event.

Cardiac Arrest Causes

Cardiac arrest causes vary, but the most common reasons include:

1. Arrhythmias (Abnormal Heart Rhythms)

The most frequent cause is ventricular fibrillation, a chaotic, rapid heartbeat that prevents the heart from pumping blood effectively.

2. Coronary Artery Disease

This is the leading cause of cardiovascular diseases and significantly raises the risk of cardiac arrest. It occurs when arteries become narrowed or blocked.

3. Heart Attack

A heart attack can trigger sudden cardiac arrest, especially if it damages the heart muscle or causes an arrhythmia.

4. Cardiomyopathy

This refers to diseases of the heart muscle, which can lead to abnormal rhythms and eventual arrest.

5. Congenital Heart Conditions

Undiagnosed genetic heart problems, particularly in young people and athletes, are another hidden risk.

6. Electrolyte Imbalances

Low potassium or magnesium levels can disrupt electrical signaling in the heart.

7. Severe Blood Loss, Trauma, or Electric Shock

These can cause a dramatic drop in oxygen supply or interfere with the heart’s electrical system.

At Sparsh Hospitals, our specialists screen for these cardiac arrest causes as part of routine cardiac care and post-event rehabilitation.

Cardiac Arrest Symptoms

The terrifying truth about cardiac arrest symptoms is how quickly and silently they can escalate. While some people have warning signs, many experience no symptoms at all before the event.

Warning Signs Before a Cardiac Arrest:

Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness
No pulse or breathing
Sudden dizziness or lightheadedness
Chest discomfort or pain (may resemble heart attack symptoms)
Shortness of breath
Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat

When cardiac arrest symptoms occur, every second counts. If you or someone nearby collapses and becomes unresponsive, call emergency services and begin CPR immediately.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest: Who Is at Risk?

While sudden cardiac arrest can strike healthy individuals, some are at higher risk:

People with prior heart attacks
Individuals with heart failure or cardiovascular diseases
Athletes with undiagnosed heart conditions
Those with family history of cardiac arrest
Smokers and those with high blood pressure or cholesterol
Diabetics and those with sedentary lifestyles

If you’re at risk, don’t wait for symptoms to strike. Book a preventive screening at Sparsh Hospitals, home to the Best Cardiologists in Bangalore.

Cardiac Arrest Treatment

Cardiac arrest treatment must be fast and focused. The goal is to restore blood flow and restart the heart. This includes:

1. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

Immediate chest compressions help circulate oxygenated blood to vital organs until help arrives.

2. Defibrillation

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) delivers an electric shock to reset the heart’s rhythm. AEDs are often found in public places and are designed for use by laypersons.

3. Advanced Medical Intervention

At the hospital, treatment may involve:

Medications to stabilize heart rhythm
Insertion of a pacemaker or defibrillator (ICD)
Angioplasty or surgery to unblock arteries
Intensive care monitoring

Long-Term Care After Cardiac Arrest

Surviving a cardiac arrest is just the beginning. Long-term care involves:

Cardiac rehabilitation to restore strength and confidence
Regular follow-ups with your cardiologist
Lifestyle changes—healthy eating, exercise, quitting smoking
Stress management and emotional support

At Sparsh, we provide comprehensive post-arrest recovery programs tailored to each patient’s condition and goals.

Why Choose Sparsh Hospitals for Cardiac Emergencies?

Sparsh Hospitals is recognized among the Best Cardiology Hospitals in Bangalore for its 24/7 emergency care, modern cardiac units, and compassionate specialists. Under the guidance of cardiologist expert, a highly expert team in interventional cardiology, patients receive world-class care backed by decades of experience.

From diagnostics and critical care to rehabilitation and prevention, we cover every aspect of heart health.

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is cardiac arrest?

Cardiac arrest is a sudden loss of heart function due to electrical failure in the heart, causing it to stop pumping blood.

Q. What are the first symptoms of cardiac arrest?

Collapse, no pulse, and no breathing are classic symptoms. Some people may experience dizziness, chest pain, or irregular heartbeat before collapsing.

Q. Is cardiac arrest the same as a heart attack?

No. A heart attack is a circulation problem, while cardiac arrest is an electrical problem that causes the heart to stop suddenly. However, a heart attack can trigger cardiac arrest.

Q. Can cardiac arrest be treated?

Yes. Immediate CPR and defibrillation are essential. In-hospital care may involve medications, devices like ICDs, and surgery.

Q. Who is at risk for sudden cardiac arrest?

People with heart disease, genetic conditions, or previous heart attacks are at higher risk. Lifestyle factors like smoking and poor diet also increase the risk.