Cardiac arrest is a life-threatening medical emergency that often strikes without any warning, allowing little time to respond, making every minute critical. Without immediate medical intervention, the condition can be fatal. In recent years, rising stress levels, unhealthy lifestyles, and ignored heart conditions have contributed to a sharp increase in sudden cardiac arrest cases around the world, including India. That said, recognising the early warning signs, understanding the causes, and adopting preventive measures can make a life-saving difference. To help, in this article, we will discuss the fundamentals of cardiac arrest, including how it differs from a heart attack, its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and ways to prevent it. Let’s start by understanding the basics.
What is Cardiac Arrest/Cardiopulmonary Arrest?
Cardiac arrest, also called cardiopulmonary arrest or circulatory arrest, is a condition in which the heart suddenly stops pumping blood to the body. This cuts oxygen supply to vital organs, especially the brain. Within seconds, the person may lose consciousness, stop breathing, and collapse. Unlike progressive heart problems, cardiac arrest occurs abruptly and requires immediate medical attention. If treatment is delayed, it can quickly become life-threatening.
How is Cardiac Arrest Different from a Heart Attack?
Although often confused, cardiac arrest and heart attack are not the same. A heart attack happens when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually due to a clot in the coronary arteries. The heart muscle is damaged but often continues to beat.
Cardiac arrest, on the other hand, is caused by a sudden disruption in the heart’s electrical system. This leads to the heart stopping completely, with no pulse or breathing. While a heart attack can sometimes trigger cardiac arrest, the two conditions require different immediate responses.
What Causes Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest can occur due to several underlying conditions that affect the heart’s structure, rhythm, or overall health. Some of the common causes include:
1. Coronary Artery Disease and Heart Blockages
Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to cholesterol deposits (plaques) can reduce blood flow to the heart muscle. This can lead to a heart attack, which in turn may trigger cardiac arrest.
2. Arrhythmias (Irregular Heart Rhythms)
Abnormal heart rhythms, particularly ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia, are leading causes of sudden cardiac arrest. These disrupt the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.
3. Genetic and Inherited Heart Conditions
Some people are born with structural heart problems or electrical disorders such as Long QT syndrome, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or Brugada syndrome, all of which increase the risk of cardiac arrest.
4. Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors
Habits and health conditions such as smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, excessive alcohol intake, and chronic stress can weaken the heart over time and raise the chances of cardiac arrest.
Types of Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac arrest can result from different types of abnormal heart rhythms or electrical failures. The main types include:
1. Ventricular Fibrillation (VF)
A life-threatening rhythm where the heart’s electrical signals become chaotic, causing the ventricles to quiver instead of pumping blood.
2. Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)
A very fast heartbeat starting from the lower chambers of the heart. If sustained, it can stop the heart from pumping effectively, leading to cardiac arrest.
3. Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA)
The heart shows electrical activity on medical tests, but it does not generate an actual pulse, meaning blood is not circulated through the body.
4. Asystole (Flatline)
The most severe type, where there is no electrical activity in the heart at all, resulting in a complete stop of heart function.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest usually strikes suddenly and without warning. Recognising the signs quickly is crucial, as every second counts.
Immediate Symptoms
- Sudden collapse and loss of consciousness
- No pulse or heartbeat
- No breathing or only gasping sounds
Possible Early Warning Signs (before collapse in some cases)
- Chest discomfort or pain
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Unexplained fatigue or weakness
Note: If any of these symptoms occur, especially sudden collapse or loss of responsiveness, it is a medical emergency requiring immediate action such as CPR and calling for emergency help.
How Do Doctors Diagnose Cardiopulmonary Arrest?
Diagnosis of cardiac arrest begins the moment a person collapses and shows no signs of life. Doctors and emergency responders act quickly to confirm the condition and start treatment.
Immediate Medical Tests and Emergency Response
- Checking for responsiveness, breathing, and pulse
- Starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
- Using an automated external defibrillator (AED) to restore heart rhythm if needed
ECG, Blood Tests, and Imaging
Once the patient is stabilised, further tests are done to find the underlying cause:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG): Detects abnormal heart rhythms or past heart damage
- Blood tests: Identify heart muscle injury, electrolyte imbalances, or genetic markers
- Imaging tests (Echocardiogram, CT scan, MRI): Evaluate heart structure and function
Cardiac Arrest Treatment Options
Treatment for cardiac arrest is highly time-sensitive, beginning immediately at the emergency stage and continuing with long-term care to prevent recurrence. The treatment includes:
Emergency Medical Response and Defibrillation
- Immediate CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is crucial to maintain blood flow to the brain and vital organs.
- Defibrillation with an AED (automated external defibrillator) delivers an electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm.
Medications and Surgery
- Drugs such as adrenaline and anti-arrhythmic medicines may be used during resuscitation.
- Surgical options include angioplasty to open blocked arteries, pacemaker insertion, or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to correct abnormal heart rhythms.
Long-Term Management and Rehabilitation
- Enrolling in a cardiac rehabilitation programme to restore strength and improve heart function.
- Lifestyle changes, regular exercise under medical guidance, and medication for blood pressure, cholesterol, or arrhythmias.
- Ongoing monitoring by cardiologists to reduce the risk of another episode.
How to Prevent Cardiac Arrest?
While not every case of cardiac arrest can be predicted, many risk factors can be reduced through healthy choices and timely check-ups.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits for Heart Protection
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and heart-healthy fats.
- Exercise regularly to maintain weight, strengthen the heart, and improve circulation.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
- Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.
- Control chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol with medical guidance.
Regular Heart Screenings and Check-ups
- Routine blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checks help detect risks early.
- ECGs and echocardiograms for those with family history of heart disease.
- Periodic consultations with a cardiologist, especially for individuals with known heart conditions or multiple risk factors.
When to See a Cardiologist for Cardiac Arrest Symptoms?
Seeking timely medical advice can make a critical difference in preventing cardiac emergencies. A cardiologist should be consulted if:
- There is chest pain, discomfort, or unexplained shortness of breath
- Episodes of dizziness, fainting, or near-fainting occur
- There is a family history of sudden cardiac arrest or inherited heart conditions
- Heart rhythm feels irregular, too fast, or too slow
- Risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or smoking are present
Note: Even if symptoms seem mild, an early evaluation helps identify hidden heart issues and reduces the risk of life-threatening complications.
How Artemis Hospitals Supports Cardiac Arrest Patients
Artemis Hospitals combines advanced technology with specialised expertise to provide comprehensive care for cardiac arrest patients, from emergency response to long-term recovery. We offer:
Advanced Emergency Cardiac Care Facilities
- 24x7 emergency services with rapid response teams
- State-of-the-art defibrillators, cardiac monitoring, and intensive care units
Experienced Cardiologists and Cardiac Surgeons
- A team of highly trained cardiologists and cardiac surgeons experienced in managing complex cardiac emergencies
- Specialised care plans tailored to individual patient needs
24x7 Emergency and Rehabilitation Support
- Continuous monitoring, round-the-clock medical assistance, and immediate interventions when required
- Structured cardiac rehabilitation programmes to help patients regain strength and improve heart health after recovery
Book an Appointment Today
Timely detection and treatment of heart conditions can save lives and reduce the risk of sudden cardiac arrest. At Artemis Hospitals, patients receive specialised cardiac care supported by advanced technology, expert doctors, and 24x7 emergency services. To book an appointment with a cardiologist at Artemis Hospitals, call +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp +91 980-040-0498. Appointments can also be scheduled through the online patient portal or via the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available on both iOS and Android.
Article By Dr. D K Jhamb
Chief Cardiology (Unit IV)
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes cardiac arrest in young adults?
Cardiac arrest in young adults is often linked to genetic heart conditions, structural abnormalities, or undetected arrhythmias. Intense physical activity, substance abuse, or certain viral infections affecting the heart may also be triggers.
What are the early warning signs of cardiac arrest?
Possible warning signs include sudden chest pain, unexplained shortness of breath, dizziness, palpitations, or fainting episodes. In many cases, however, cardiac arrest occurs without any prior symptoms.
Can cardiac arrest occur without symptoms?
Yes. Sudden cardiac arrest can strike without warning, which is why routine heart check-ups and awareness of risk factors are essential, even in people who feel healthy.
What is the first aid for cardiac arrest?
The immediate response is to call emergency services, begin CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available. Early action greatly improves survival chances.
Which is more dangerous, heart attack or cardiac arrest?
Both are serious, but cardiac arrest is immediately life-threatening because the heart stops beating altogether. A heart attack can sometimes lead to cardiac arrest if not treated promptly.
Can stress or anxiety trigger cardiac arrest?
Severe stress or anxiety can increase adrenaline levels, raise blood pressure, and trigger arrhythmias in people with existing heart problems, potentially leading to cardiac arrest.
Can young and healthy people also suffer from cardiac arrest?
Yes. Even those who appear healthy can experience sudden cardiac arrest, especially if they have undiagnosed genetic heart conditions or rhythm disorders.
Does high blood pressure increase the risk of cardiac arrest?
Yes. Uncontrolled high blood pressure damages blood vessels, strains the heart, and increases the risk of heart failure and cardiac arrest.
What is the survival rate of cardiac arrest patients?
Survival depends largely on how quickly CPR and defibrillation are administered. Prompt treatment within minutes can double or triple survival rates.
Where can I find the best cardiac arrest treatment near me in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospitals in Gurgaon is among the leading centres for cardiac arrest treatment, offering 24x7 emergency response, advanced interventions, and expert cardiologists.
Which is the best hospital for cardiac emergency care near me?
Artemis Hospitals provides comprehensive cardiac emergency care with advanced technology, experienced specialists, and round-the-clock facilities for critical patients.
Which hospital offers advanced cardiac arrest rehabilitation near me?
Artemis Hospitals offers structured cardiac rehabilitation programmes designed to help patients recover, regain strength, and improve heart health after a cardiac arrest.
How to book a consultation with a cardiologist in Gurgaon for cardiac arrest prevention?
Consultations with cardiologists in Gurgaon can be booked through hospital websites, patient portals, or by contacting the cardiology department directly. Many leading hospitals, such as Artemis Hospitals, also provide convenient booking options including phone (+91-124-451-1111), WhatsApp (+91 980-040-0498), and dedicated mobile apps for patients.
