Herzausfälle

Herzausfälle, also known as cardiac arrest, refers to a sudden and complete cessation of effective heart function. This condition is a medical emergency where the heart stops beating, leading to an immediate loss of consciousness and absence of breathing. Without prompt intervention, it is rapidly fatal.

The most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest is an electrical malfunction in the heart, often due to a life-threatening heart rhythm disturbance called ventricular fibrillation. Other underlying causes can include coronary artery disease, heart muscle diseases (cardiomyopathy), congenital heart defects, and severe electrolyte imbalances. Sometimes, cardiac arrest can occur without a known pre-existing heart condition.

Symptoms of herzausfall are abrupt and include sudden collapse, loss of responsiveness, and absence of normal breathing or gasping. There may be no warning signs. Immediate action is crucial. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation with an automated external defibrillator (AED) are the cornerstones of initial treatment. CPR helps to maintain blood flow to the brain and vital organs, while defibrillation can restore a normal heart rhythm if the cause is an electrical problem. Emergency medical services should be contacted immediately. The outcome depends heavily on the speed of response and the underlying cause.