Cardiac arrest

Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest 

People experiencing cardiac arrest often show sudden and noticeable signs. These are commonly used by doctors to recognize the condition quickly.

Common symptoms:

• Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness

• No normal breathing, or only gasping for air

• No pulse detected

• Does not respond to voice or touch

Possible warning signs before it happens
(Some people may notice these shortly before cardiac arrest, though they are not always present.)

• Shortness of breath 

• Chest pain, mainly angina 

• Extreme tiredness (unusual fatigue)

• Belly pain, nausea, and vomiting

• Back pain

• Flu-like symptoms

• Repeated dizziness or fainting, especially while exercising hard, sitting, or lying on your back

• Fast, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat (palpitations)

Causes of Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest starts with a problem in the heart’s electrical system, which controls the heartbeat. In a healthy heart, electrical signals follow a steady path that allows the heart to pump blood effectively.

During cardiac arrest, these signals become disorganized or stop. The heart may quiver or beat in a fast, irregular way and cannot pump blood properly.

As blood flow drops, oxygen does not reach the brain and other organs. The person quickly loses consciousness, and breathing stops or becomes abnormal. CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and a defibrillator help restore blood flow and a normal heart rhythm.

Note: Up to 50% of sudden cardiac arrests can happen without any earlier warning signs.

Understanding why this happens and recognizing possible risk clues can make a real difference. To learn the causes, warning signals, and ways to stay prepared.
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Risk Factors for Cardiac Arrest

Several health conditions, lifestyle habits, and family history can increase the risk of cardiac arrest. These include:

1. Non-modifiable risk factors

• Age and sex: Risk increases with age. Cardiac arrest is more common in men, though women’s risk rises after menopause.
  
  

• Family history and genetics: Heart problems or sudden, unexplained deaths in close relatives may indicate a higher inherited risk.
  
  

• Race and ethnicity: Certain groups, like Black people, have a higher risk due to a mix of health conditions and social factors.
  
  

• Heart structure issues: Some people are born with heart defects, or the heart muscle can change over time. These problems can affect how well the heart pumps and keeps a steady beat, which can raise the risk of cardiac arrest.
  
  

2. Modifiable risk factors

• Heart problems: Conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, valve issues, or cardiomyopathy (an enlarged heart) weaken the heart. A weaker heart is less able to pump blood efficiently, which can trigger cardiac arrest.
  
  

• Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias): Sometimes the heart’s electrical system misfires, making it beat too fast, too slow, or in an uneven way. This can stop the heart from pumping blood properly.
  
  

• High blood pressure: Persistently high pressure in the arteries strains the heart and other organs. Often called a “silent killer,” it usually shows no symptoms without regular checks.
  
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• High cholesterol: Excess “bad” cholesterol (LDL) can build up in arteries and reduce blood flow. Low “good” cholesterol (HDL) gives less protection, raising the risk of heart problems.
  
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• Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and the heart. People with diabetes have a higher risk of heart disease and cardiac arrest than those without.
  
  Managing blood sugar isn’t just about diabetes — it’s about heart health too.
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• Obesity: Carrying extra weight increases the chance of high blood pressure, diabetes, and unhealthy cholesterol levels. These factors all strain the heart.
  
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• Lifestyle factors: Extreme stress, smoking, heavy alcohol use, illicit drug use, very high caffeine intake, poor diet, and lack of exercise put extra stress on the heart.
  
  

Curious about your heart health? Wondering what tests can give you a clear picture of your heart? Check out this article to learn about essential heart health tests and what they reveal about your risk.
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Diagnosis of Cardiac Arrest

After a cardiac arrest, doctors evaluate the underlying cause and assess heart function to help prevent recurrence. 

1. Family history and physical examination

• Doctors ask about a family history of heart disease, sudden cardiac death, or inherited rhythm disorders. 

• This helps identify genetic risk. 

• A physical exam checks blood pressure, pulse, heart sounds, breathing, and other signs of an underlying condition that may have caused the cardiac arrest.

2. Electrocardiography (ECG/EKG)

• This quick test records the heart’s electrical activity. It helps detect abnormal heart rhythms and signs of a previous heart attack.
  
  

3. Cardiac monitoring (Holter or event monitor)

• A portable device worn for hours or days to track heart rhythm during daily activities. It helps find rhythm problems that may not appear during a short ECG.
  
  

4. Echocardiography (heart ultrasound)

• Uses sound waves to create images of the heart. It shows how well the heart pumps and checks for structural problems or a weak heart muscle.
  
  

5. Exercise stress test or treadmill test

• The heart is monitored while you walk on a treadmill or receive medicine that makes the heart work harder. This helps see how the heart performs under stress.
  
  

Note: Stress testing is not typically done immediately post-arrest unless stable.

6. Cardiac catheterization (coronary angiography)

• A thin tube is guided to the heart’s blood vessels to look for blockages. It helps doctors decide if procedures like stenting are needed.
  
  

7. Electrophysiology (EP) study

• Special wires are passed into the heart to study its electrical system from the inside. This helps locate the source of rhythm problems.
  
  

8. Genetic testing

• A blood test that looks for inherited gene changes linked to heart rhythm disorders. It may also help assess risk in family members.

9. Blood tests

• Complete blood count (CBC): Checks red and white blood cells, platelets, and haemoglobin to assess overall blood health.

• Urea and electrolytes (U&E) panel test: Evaluates kidney function and mineral balance, which helps keep the heart rhythm stable.

• Troponin test: Detects heart muscle damage and helps diagnose a heart attack.

• Cholesterol and lipid Profile: Measures blood fats to assess heart disease risk.

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Prevention of Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest can’t always be predicted or completely prevented, but you can lower your risk by following these habits:

1. Quit smoking and avoid tobacco

Smoking damages blood vessels and strains the heart. Stopping smoking improves heart health and lowers the chance of heart disease and rhythm problems.

Take the first step today, explore nicotine gums, patches, and other quit-smoking aids to support your journey.
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2. Limit alcohol and avoid drugs

Heavy drinking and recreational drugs like cocaine or amphetamines can trigger dangerous heart rhythms.

3. Know your family history

If heart rhythm disorders run in your family, speak with your doctor. Genetic counseling or testing may help identify risk early.

4. Manage medical conditions

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and sleep problems like sleep apnea, with treatment and regular check-ups.

Find tips to manage sleep apnea and protect your heart naturally.
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5. Get regular health check-ups

Routine ECGs, blood tests, and doctor visits help detect silent heart disease before it becomes an emergency.

6. Maintain a healthy weight

Keeping weight in a healthy range reduces strain on the heart. It also lowers the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

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7. Manage your stress

Stress can elevate your blood pressure. De-stress yourself by indulging in hobbies or activities which you like. Try yoga or meditation or join a club or class for a company.

To know the ways to relax and regain balance, read this stress management guide.
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8. Maintain healthy sleep habits

Poor sleep strains the heart. Treat sleep apnea and follow a consistent sleep routine.

Here are some simple habits that you can adopt to get a good night’s sleep.
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Doctor to Visit

Cardiac arrest is a serious emergency that needs urgent treatment and proper follow-up. Along with a general physician, these specialists play a key role:

• Cardiologist

• Cardiac Surgeon

A cardiologist evaluates how well your heart is working. They find heart diseases or rhythm problems and treat them with medicines, lifestyle advice, and regular check-ups.

A cardiac surgeon performs heart surgery. They treat serious issues like blocked heart arteries, damaged valves, or other structural heart problems that cannot be managed with medicines alone.

When to see a doctor?

You should consider seeing a cardiologist if you notice any of these signs or risk factors:

• Ongoing chest pain, pressure, or discomfort

• Shortness of breath during rest or activity

• Skipped beats, racing heart, or unusual heart rhythms

Don’t ignore warning signs or known heart conditions. Consulting the right specialist can help reduce future risk and protect your heart health.
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Treatment of Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency, and management consists of:

1. Emergency treatment

• Call for emergency help immediately: Dial emergency services immediately if a person collapses and isn’t breathing normally.
  
  

• Start CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation): Push hard and fast in the center of the chest to keep blood flowing.
  
  Here is a step-by-step guide to giving CPR correctly.
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• Use an AED (automated external defibrillator): This device checks heart rhythm and gives a shock if needed. AEDs are commonly found in places like airports, malls, offices, and stations. Follow the voice prompts until help arrives.
  
  

• Continue CPR: Keep going until the person recovers or medical help takes over.
  
  

2. Hospital treatment after survival

• Close monitoring of heart and organs: Doctors track heart rhythm, blood pressure, oxygen, and brain function.
  
  

• Targeted temperature management (TTM): Body cooling may be used to protect the brain.
  
  

• Oxygen therapy: Extra oxygen supports organ recovery.
  
  

• Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO- advanced life support): A machine may temporarily take over heart and lung function in severe cases.
  
  

• Treating the root cause: Doctors address blocked arteries, heart rhythm problems, or other triggers.
  
  

3. Devices to prevent another cardiac arrest

• Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD): This small device is placed under the skin in the chest. It constantly monitors heart rhythm and gives a shock automatically if a dangerous rhythm is detected.
  
  

• Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD): Similar to an ICD but placed under the skin without wires inside the heart. It may be safer for some people, especially those at higher risk of infection.
  
  

• Wearable cardioverter defibrillator (WCD): This is a vest-like device worn outside the body for temporary protection. It monitors the heart and can deliver a shock if needed while waiting for long-term treatment.

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3. Emergency medicines:

• Vasopressors: These medicines tighten blood vessels to raise blood pressure during cardiac arrest.            Examples: Adrenaline and Vasopressin

• Antiarrhythmic drugs: These control dangerous irregular heartbeats that stop the heart from pumping properly.
  Examples: Amiodarone and Lidocaine

• Electrolyte therapy: These are used when abnormal mineral levels in the blood are causing heart rhythm problems.
  Examples: Magnesium sulfate

• Calcium treatment (special situations): Given if cardiac arrest happens due to very high potassium, low calcium, or certain medicine overdoses.
  Example: Calcium chloride / Calcium gluconate

• Fibrinolytic drugs (specific cause only): Used when cardiac arrest is caused by a large blood clot in the lungs or heart. They help dissolve the clot.
  Examples: Tenecteplase and Alteplase

• Corticosteroids (adjunct in some settings): Not routinely given, but may be used under specialist care in certain severe shock situations after resuscitation to help support blood pressure.
  Examples: Hydrocortisone and Methylprednisolone

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Home-care for Cardiac Arrest

One of the most important parts of recovery is everyday nutrition. A heart-healthy diet helps reduce strain on the heart, supports blood pressure and cholesterol control, and lowers the risk of future cardiac events.

Eat a heart-healthy diet

• Choose meals rich in fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, and lean proteins such as skinless chicken or fish. Include healthy fats like olive oil, walnuts, avocados, and fatty fish such as salmon or tuna to support heart health.
  
  

• Limit foods high in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol, as these can increase the risk of blocked arteries.
  
  

• Reduce salt (sodium) intake, since too much salt can cause fluid retention, raise blood pressure, and put extra strain on the heart.
  
  

• Cut back on added sugars, which helps keep blood sugar levels in check and lowers the risk of diabetes, an important factor in long-term heart health.

Here are some more things that you can do to keep your heart strong and healthy?
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Complications of Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest affects the entire body. Even when the heart is restarted, many organs may suffer damage due to a lack of oxygen and reduced blood flow. These complications can develop in the hours or days that follow.

• Pneumonia (lung infection): Some people may develop lung infections after cardiac arrest. This makes breathing harder, slows recovery, and increases the risk of death.
  
  

• Electrolyte imbalance: Salt and mineral levels in the blood may become abnormal. This can disturb heart rhythm and delay healing.
  
  

• Gastrointestinal bleeding: Bleeding can occur in the stomach or intestines after cardiac arrest. It may cause weakness, low blood counts, and further complications.
  
  

• Injuries from resuscitation (CPR-related injuries): Life-saving CPR can sometimes cause injuries such as cracked ribs. These are unintentional but may increase pain and recovery time.
  
  

• Seizures: Seizures may occur due to brain injury from a lack of oxygen. They require urgent treatment and close monitoring.
  
  

• Liver function problems: The liver may not work properly after cardiac arrest.
  
  

• Sepsis (severe infection): Some people can develop serious bloodstream infections.
  
  

• Acute kidney failure: The kidneys may suddenly stop functioning well. This leads to toxin buildup and is linked to poor recovery.
  
  

• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (severe lung failure): Severe lung damage can cause dangerously low oxygen levels. This is a life-threatening complication with poor outcomes.
  
  

• Severe neurologic injury: Lack of oxygen can cause serious brain damage. This may lead to coma or long-term disability.
  
  

• Post-anoxic brain injury: Brain cells may continue to get injured even after the heart restarts. Symptoms can worsen over hours or days.
  
  

• Poor neurologic recovery: Some people do not fully regain normal brain function. This can affect independence and long-term survival.
  
  

• Cognitive and functional impairment: Survivors may have problems with memory, speech, focus, or daily activities like walking and self-care.

Living with Cardiac Arrest

Surviving a cardiac arrest is a major milestone. There are many things you can do every day and over time to protect your heart, support your recovery, and feel better.

1. Stay physically active

• Supervised moderate exercise is an integral part of a healthy heart regimen. 

• It also helps in maintaining a healthy weight, as obesity is a known factor that worsens heart failure. 

• You can consult your doctor on which exercise to do in case you are at risk of heart failure.
  
  Check out these easy, heart-healthy exercises you can start today.
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2. Track symptoms and report changes

• Notice how you’re feeling each day - things like shortness of breath, dizziness, chest discomfort, or palpitations. 

• Let your doctor know if symptoms start or get worse so your care plan can be adjusted.
  
  

3. Take medicines as prescribed

• After a cardiac arrest, you may need medicines to protect your heart and manage other conditions.

• Take every dose as your doctor tells you and mention all other medicines you use, including over-the-counter ones.
  
  

Monitor key health numbers

These simple checks can help you spot heart risks early. Heart-health screenings include:

• Blood Pressure: Get it checked at every doctor visit and monitor it at home regularly, even if your readings are normal.
  
  Check your BP at home.
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• Cholesterol: A cholesterol test every 4 to 6 years is okay if you're at low risk. If you have diabetes, high BP, or a family history, you may need it more often.
  
  

• Weight: Your weight and BMI are usually checked during regular health checkups.
  
  

• Blood Sugar: People with heart disease, including those after cardiac arrest, should be screened for diabetes.

                    - If diagnosed: HbA1c every 3 months until stable, then every 6 months
                    - If normal but at risk: Test yearly or as advised
                    - If low risk and normal: Every 3 years

6. Stay updated with recommended vaccinations

• Staying up to date with vaccines like Flu, Pneumococcal, RSV, and Tdap/Td is an important part of heart care, just like eating well and staying active. 

• These vaccines help lower the risk of infections that can put extra stress on your heart.

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