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Cardiac & Vascular Health
Question #19121
65 days ago
155

cause of cardiac arrest - #19121

Ranveer

I am kinda freaking out now because my grandpa just had a cardiac arrest and I'm really triyng to understand what could be the cause of cardiac arrest. Like, he was totally fine all day, he was even playing cards with us! Then suddenly, he just collapsed. They say sometimes it happens out of nowhere, but can you guys explain what might actually be the cause of cardiac arrest? Is it always heart disease, or could stress and other factors play a role too? He did have this history of high blood pressure, but no one really thought it was that serious. I was just doing some quick reading, and it seemed like there could be different causes of cardiac arrest, like arrhythmias or something. But, could it also be lifestyle choices or genetics? I'm honestly confused because it feels like they don't give you all the answers in the hospital. Wondering if there are common cause of cardiac arrest that I should be aware of, or even signs before it happens? Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. This whole thing is just terrifying.

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Doctors' responses

Cardiac arrest is indeed sudden and can be frightening, especially when the person seemed fine. It’s important to understand that cardiac arrest occurs when the heart unexpectedly stops beating, cutting off blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. The most common cause is a problem with the heart’s electrical system, which can result from various conditions. One frequent cause is arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats that can occur from conditions like coronary artery disease or heart attacks. A history of heart issues, such as high blood pressure like your grandpa had, can increase the risk though it might not seem serious at times. Other potential causes include severe heart failure, cardiomyopathy, or problems with the heart valves. Sometimes electrolyte imbalances or even acute stress events can precipitate an arrest, though less commonly. Lifestyle factors like smoking, poor diet, or lack of exercise can contribute over time, but genetics also play a significant role in determining heart health. There are rare cases where it may occur without noticeable heart disease, known as sudden cardiac arrest. Warning signs are not always present, but symptoms like chest pain, lightheadedness, palpitations, or a racing heart can sometimes precede an event. It’s crucial to manage existing risk factors, such as controlling blood pressure and leading a heart-healthy lifestyle. The key is early detection and intervention—if symptoms surface, seek medical attention promptly. In emergencies, rapid action with CPR and a defibrillator can be lifesaving. If you’re concerned about your family’s health, it would be wise to discuss with a healthcare professional who can guide a personalized risk assessment and preventive strategy.

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