sydänpysähdys

Sydänpysähdys, also known as cardiac arrest, is a sudden and unexpected loss of heart function. The heart abruptly stops beating effectively, which prevents it from pumping blood to the brain, lungs, and other vital organs. This is a life-threatening medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

The most common cause of sudden cardiac arrest is an electrical problem in the heart, known as an arrhythmia. Ventricular fibrillation is a type of arrhythmia where the heart's lower chambers (ventricles) quiver chaotically instead of pumping blood. Other causes can include heart attack, severe trauma, drowning, electrocution, and certain drug overdoses.

Symptoms of cardiac arrest are sudden and dramatic. They typically include an abrupt collapse, loss of consciousness, absence of breathing or gasping breaths, and no pulse. Immediate recognition of these signs is crucial.

The most effective treatment for cardiac arrest is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). CPR manually circulates blood to the brain and other organs, while an AED can deliver an electrical shock to restore a normal heart rhythm. Every minute without these interventions significantly reduces the chance of survival. Emergency medical services should be contacted immediately by calling the local emergency number. Without prompt and effective treatment, cardiac arrest is usually fatal.