Seconds Decide Survival: Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest

By Dr. Rishabh Gautam — Anaesthetist, Intensivist & Critical Care Specialist

What Is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening condition where the heart suddenly stops pumping due to an electrical malfunction, leading to sudden loss of consciousness, no pulse, and no breathing. Early diagnosis and expert care through multispeciality healthcare services at abhisri hospital can significantly improve survival and recovery.

Millions confuse cardiac arrest with a heart attack, but they are different:

Heart Attack = blood flow blockage

Sudden Cardiac Arrest = electrical failure of the heart

Recognizing this difference is crucial for correct response and survival.

Why Does Sudden Cardiac Arrest Happen?

The most common cause is ventricular fibrillation, an abnormal heart rhythm where the lower chambers quiver instead of pumping effectively.

Major Risk Factors

Coronary artery disease

Previous heart attack

Cardiomyopathy

Genetic electrical disorders (Long QT, Brugada syndrome)

Heart valve disease

Obesity, diabetes, high BP, high cholesterol

Drug abuse or stimulant use

Even healthy individuals can experience SCA, which is why awareness is essential.

Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

SCA often occurs without any warning. But some people experience early symptoms minutes or hours before:

Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Sudden dizziness

Chest discomfort

Shortness of breath

Unexplained fainting

During an arrest, the person collapses, becomes unresponsive, stops breathing, and has no pulse.

Emergency Response: Every Second Matters

Survival depends on how fast someone nearby acts.

1. Call Emergency Services Immediately

Dial local emergency numbers without delay.

2. Start CPR at Once

Hands-only CPR

100–120 compressions/minute

Push hard and fast in the center of the chest

This keeps blood circulating until advanced help arrives.

3. Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

AEDs are commonly available in public spaces.

They analyze heart rhythm and deliver a life-saving shock if needed.

4. Advanced Medical Care

Defibrillation

Anti-arrhythmic drugs

Ventilation support

Intensive post-resuscitation care

Treatment After Survival

Once stabilized, the patient may need:

ECG & Echocardiography

Blood tests

Coronary angiography

ICD (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator)

Lifestyle changes & cardiac rehabilitation

These help prevent future episodes.

Can Sudden Cardiac Arrest Be Prevented?

In many cases, yes.

Prevention Strategies

Manage BP, diabetes, and cholesterol

Quit smoking

Exercise regularly

Eat a balanced, heart-healthy diet

Maintain ideal weight

Get regular heart check-ups

Learn CPR — it truly saves lives

High-risk individuals may benefit from ICDs for long-term protection.

Why Awareness Matters

Most cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals, making immediate bystander action the most critical factor.

Communities trained in CPR and AED use dramatically improve survival rates.

Final Thoughts — By Dr. Rishabh Gautam

Sudden cardiac arrest is fast, silent, and deadly — but timely action saves lives. If you experience unexplained palpitations, fainting, or chest discomfort, seek medical care without delay at one of the best ICU hospitals in unnao to ensure immediate and expert intervention.

Let us build a well-informed, prepared society capable of responding instantly when seconds matter.

Stay informed. Stay prepared. Stay heart-healthy.
– Dr. Rishabh Gautam