Symptoms and Warnings
A sudden cardiac arrest is characterized by a sudden loss of consciousness, pulse, and breathing. Before one experiences a cardiac arrest, there might be chest discomfort, shortness of breath, weakness, or irregular or rapid heartbeat or pulse ("Sudden Cardiac Arrest," 2018).
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Heart arrhythmia is the result of an electrical problem in your heart. This can lead to a Sudden Cardiac Arrest and is usually the cause. Coronary Heart disease, Cardiomyopathy, Valvular Heart disease, Congenital Heart disease, and electrical problems in the heart could cause a Sudden Cardiac Arrest ("Sudden Cardiac Arrest," 2018).
What to do if Someone Goes into Cardiac Arrest
As shown to the right, a cardiac arrest which is witnessed had a higher survival rate. This could be due to the use of CPR, an AED, or someone who called 911.
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If you see anyone having a cardiac arrest, call 911 immediately, check your surroundings and check if the person is breathing and has no pulse. If the person isn't breathing, begin CPR or get an AED. Try to aim for 100 to 120 chest compressions per minute.
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"For every minute that passes without CRP and/or an AED, the chance of survival drops by 10%"
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The use of an AED or defibrillator is greatly preferred to CPR, as CPR can sometimes not work. An AED can restart the heart and restore blood flow to the body ("About Cardiac Arrest,").