AskDocDoc
/
/
/
what are symptoms of cardiac arrest
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #15250
45 days ago
91

what are symptoms of cardiac arrest - #15250

Agastya

I am really worried because my uncle just had a cardiac event, and I can't help but think about what are symptoms of cardiac arrest. He was just watching TV and suddenly collapsed on the floor! It felt like everything was happening in slow motion. He was gasping for air, and it seemed like he wasn't breathing at all! We called 911, and they said it's crucial to know what are symptoms of cardiac arrest to act quickly. I remember feeling so helpless, and I just want to understand better what signs we should have recognized. He’s in the hospital now, but I keep thinking about how we could’ve prepared or acted faster if we’d known what are symptoms of cardiac arrest. It's really scary to think about, especially since my whole family is now worried about both his health and what might happen next. How do you know if someone is really having a cardiac arrest or just fainting or something? It’s so hard to stay calm when you see someone in distress. If anyone has experienced this or knows how we could have figured it out sooner, please share!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

In the event of a cardiac arrest, recognizing the symptoms quickly is crucial, as immediate action can be life-saving. Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, usually because of an electrical malfunction. The most telling signs include sudden collapse, unresponsiveness, and lack of normal breathing. The person may also make a gasping sound called agonal respiration, which shouldn’t be confused with normal breathing—it’s a sign that the heart isn’t effectively pumping blood. You’ve described the gasping for air and collapsing, which are indeed classic red flags. It’s important that during such an event, someone calls emergency services immediately and begins CPR without delay. Cardiac arrest differs from a fainting spell, which usually involves temporary consciousness loss but with a pulse and normal breathing resuming fairly quickly after. Sometimes these events occur with no warning signs, but in other instances, people might experience chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath right before. If you suspect cardiac arrest, don’t wait—immediate CPR and rapid use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) can make a big difference. Training in CPR and becoming familiar with AEDs can be extremely helpful; many organizations offer classes for this. In everyday life, maintaining heart-healthy habits, like regular exercise, a balanced diet, controlling blood pressure and not smoking, can also lower risks. While cardiac events can be sudden and unexpected, knowing the symptoms and having a plan can help everyone react more confidently and swiftly.

9465 answered questions
82% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions