Cardiac Arrest Treatment in Milford, PA

What is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops pumping. Understanding what cardiac arrest is, and its causes, recognizing the symptoms, and knowing how to respond promptly can make the difference between life and death.

According to NIH.gov, half of cardiac arrests happen to people who did not know they had a heart problem.

Warning Signs of Cardiac Arrest Include:

• Collapse suddenly
• Begin feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Lose consciousness
• Fainting or near fainting (pass out)
• Stop breathing
• Have shallow breath or wheezing
• Gasp for air
• Do not respond to shouting or shaking
• Do not have a pulse
• The feeling of a pounding heartbeat

Cardiac arrest can strike unexpectedly, but knowledge and awareness can make all the difference. At Sussex Cardiology, we’re here to empower you with information about cardiac arrest. Contact our cardiology clinic in Milford, PA today by calling (973) 579-2100.

What Should You do if Someone has Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest may be reversed if CPR is performed and a defibrillator shocks the heart and restores a normal heart rhythm within a few minutes.

1. Call 911 or emergency medical services if you or a loved one has any of these symptoms.
2. Do CPR if the person isn’t breathing. Push hard and fast on the person’s chest — about 100 to 120 pushes a minute. If you’ve been trained in CPR, check the person’s airway. Then deliver rescue breaths after every 30 compressions until help arrives.
3. Many states require an automated external defibrillator (AED) to be available in public spaces. If you have access to an AED, follow the directions on the device to administer support until medical help has arrived.

What are the Causes of Cardiac Arrest?

Several factors can trigger cardiac arrest, including:

• Arrhythmias – Abnormal heart rhythms, such as ventricular fibrillation (VF) or ventricular tachycardia (VT), can lead to cardiac arrest.
• Heart Disease – Conditions like coronary artery disease, heart attack, and cardiomyopathy increase the risk of cardiac arrest.
• Electrolyte Imbalances – Abnormal levels of potassium, calcium, or magnesium in the blood can disrupt heart function.
• Drug Overdose – Certain medications and illicit drugs can affect the heart’s electrical system.
• Trauma – Severe physical trauma or injury can lead to cardiac arrest.
• Respiratory Arrest – Prolonged lack of oxygen due to choking, drowning, or other causes can trigger cardiac arrest.

Difference Between Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

A heart attack is a “circulation” problem and sudden cardiac arrest is an “electrical” problem.

• A heart attack is when blood flow to the heart is blocked
• Cardiac arrest is when the heart malfunctions and suddenly stops beating

How Can I Prevent Cardiac Arrest

Keeping the heart healthy may help prevent sudden cardiac arrest.

You can help prevent cardiac arrest by:

• Eating healthy
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising
• Getting regular checkups
• Not smoking or using tobacco
• Reducing alcohol intake
• Being screened for heart disease
• Controlling blood pressure and cholesterol
• Managing medications

If you have a known risk of cardiac arrest, our cardiologist might recommend certain medications or precautions.

Treatment and Recovery for Cardiac Arrest

The outcome of cardiac arrest depends on the promptness of response and the quality of care provided. Defibrillation within minutes and effective CPR can significantly improve the chances of survival.

Some people regain consciousness right after cardiac arrest. Once stabilized, the individual may require intensive medical care to address the underlying cause of cardiac arrest and prevent recurrence. Once the heart starts beating again, our cardiologist will monitor you or your loved one very closely.

During cardiac arrest, blood doesn’t flow to the organs of the body. The brain may also not get enough blood. That’s why many people don’t recover after cardiac arrest. The lack of blood flow can cause lasting damage to the brain. The person may be unable to regain consciousness.

Our cardiologist will use cooling devices to lower your body temperature for a short time to reduce damage to the brain. That greatly raises the chances of recovery. Depending on your situation, you may need additional rehab or help on your road to recovery.

Learn more about Cardiac Arrest in Milford, PA

If you want to delve deeper into understanding cardiac arrest and its prevention, we’re here to help. Call our cardiology clinic in Milford, PA today at (973) 579-2100.