Approximately 30 to 35 million Indians suffer from cardiac arrest. Overwork, stress, unhealthy eating habits, smoking, drinking are some of the causes contributing to cardiac arrest. It is also one of the post-COVID effects. Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone anywhere. To ensure the safety of our loved ones, it is necessary for us to beware of the signs of cardiac arrest. On the other hand, we must know how to perform Basic Life Support (BLS) and respond immediately.
Raj Kaushal, the husband of Mandira Bedi, died on Wednesday due to a cardiac arrest at the age of 49. Very recently, 29-year-old Danish Soccer player Christian Eriksen fell down on the ground during his country’s match. The medical team performed CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation) on the field before he was rushed to the hospital. Later, the doctors confirmed that the player is suffering a cardiac arrest.
Difference Between Cardiac Arrest And Heart Attack?
Heart attack- A heart attack is when blood flow to the heart is blocked. It is a circulating problem.
Cardiac arrest- A cardiac arrest is when the heart malfunctions and suddenly stops beating unexpectedly. It can result in a person’s death.
Warning Signs Of Cardiac Arrest
Signs of sudden cardiac arrest are immediate and drastic. There are two main warning signs-continuous chest pain/ discomfort and episodes of unconsciousness. Apart from these, the patient also complains of chest pain during rest and not exertion, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, or dizziness.
Why Are Young And Fit Individuals Suffering From Cardiac Arrest
Dr. Udyavar says, when a fit and the young person falls unconscious and has a cardiac arrest, the commonest cause is a genetic disorder.
Athletes who play a lot have an enlarged heart; it is called an athlete’s heart. Such individuals may develop heartbeat problems where the heartbeat suddenly goes up. The doctor suggested that all professional athletes are screened for ECG and Echo tests so that there is no increase of risk of cardiac arrest for them.
How To Prevent The Possibility Of A Cardiac Arrest In A Long Run
If you wish to avoid any chances of having a cardiac arrest, it is important that you must stay fit and healthy. Eat a diet that is nutritious, less oily, and low in cholesterol. Avoid sugary food that leads to unhealthy weight or increases heart problems. Most importantly, engage yourself in physical activity to keep your body fit in the long run. Stay in touch with your doctor to get regular health checkups.
How To Respond In An Event Of Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac arrest is sudden and accompanied series of symptoms. When you see someone collapsing or unconscious and without a pulse, follow these simple steps immediately.
Step 1: Call for help. Dial 112,102 or 108 in India.
Step 2: perform CPR on the person having a cardiac arrest.
Step 3: Use a portable defibrillator, if available. A portable defibrillator comes with a voice mechanism that gives you step-by-step instructions. If a defibrillator is not available and you are waiting for the rescue team, continue performing CPR.
How To Perform CPR
- Call the emergency number.
- Perform 30 chest compressions and give 2 breathing mouth to mouth. Place both hands (clasped together) on the person’s breastbone, in the middle of the chest.
- Press hard and fast in the center of the chest, making the chest move inward about an inch.
- Press at the rate of 100 times per minute. Let the chest completely rise between compressions.
- Continue performing CPR until the rescue team arrives.
Cardiac arrest is a major health problem. But with little effort, someone’s survival chances may increase. Comment in the section below and let us know that we are on the same page.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes. Kindly get the doctor’s consult in an emergency.
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