What is sudden cardiac arrest?
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Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is an unexpected event where the heart abruptly stops beating, leading to a sudden cessation of blood flow to vital organs.
Key Points
- Medical Emergency: SCA is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention.
- Difference from Heart Attack: While a heart attack may sometimes precede SCA, they are distinct events.
- Heart's Electrical Malfunction: SCA occurs due to a malfunction in the heart's electrical system, resulting in erratic or stopped heartbeat.
- Consequences without Intervention: Without prompt intervention such as CPR and AED use, SCA can lead to brain damage or death within minutes.
- Causes: Causes of SCA include coronary artery disease, structural heart issues, inherited disorders, and electrical heart problems.
Recognizing SCA
Identifying signs of SCA is crucial, which may include sudden loss of responsiveness, absence of pulse or breathing, and gasping for air.
Immediate Actions
Quick actions such as contacting emergency services, performing CPR, and using an AED can significantly improve the chances of survival and recovery.