Sydämenpysähdys

Sydämenpysähdys, often referred to as cardiac arrest in English, is a sudden and unexpected loss of heart function. It occurs when the heart's electrical activity becomes chaotic or stops altogether, preventing it from pumping blood to the brain and other vital organs. This is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.

The most common cause of cardiac arrest is an electrical disturbance in the heart, such as ventricular fibrillation. Other contributing factors can include severe heart disease, trauma, drowning, drug overdose, or significant blood loss. Symptoms of cardiac arrest are abrupt and include sudden collapse, loss of consciousness, absence of breathing, and no pulse.

Immediate recognition and action are critical. If a person experiences cardiac arrest, calling emergency services without delay is the first and most important step. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be initiated as soon as possible to maintain blood flow to the brain and vital organs until professional medical help arrives. The use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) can also significantly improve the chances of survival by delivering an electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm.

The prognosis for cardiac arrest depends on several factors, including the cause of the arrest, the time it takes to receive medical attention, and the effectiveness of resuscitation efforts. Prompt medical treatment and advanced cardiac life support are essential for increasing survival rates and minimizing long-term health consequences.