Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops pumping. If treatment is delayed for only 3 to 5 minutes it may cause death or permanent brain damage. Men have a greater incidence until age 45, then the incidence is equal in men and women.
Causes of Cardiac Arrest
Causes of cardiac arrest include arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats. Some heart attacks, or myocardial infarctions, will produce cardiac arrest. Sudden, severe hypotension, due to [profound shock can produce cardiac arrest. This can be caused by a severe hemorrhage or an overwhelming infection. Other causes of cardiac arrest include loss of oxygen from drowning, choking or anesthesia and major changes in the blood’s electrolyte composition, especially changes in potassium concentration.
Signs and Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest
Symptoms of cardiac arrest may include brief dizziness, followed by fainting and unconsciousness. There are no signs of cardiopulmonary function. There is no pulse and no breathing. the skin is blue or white, from lack of oxygen to the blood. The pupils rapidly become dilated. Seizures may occur. There may be loss of bowel and bladder control. Simple fainting may appear like a cardiac arrest, but pulse and breathing continue.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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