Cardiac arrest is a condition that occurs when your heart stops beating suddenly without any warning. It mostly occurs due to problems relating to the electrical system that is responsible for heart regulation. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening medical emergency. First aid treatment a few minutes after the attack is essential to save the life of someone who may be experiencing it.<\/p>\n
Cardiac arrest is a medical term that some people may find difficult to understand. On the surface definition, it is very easy. Cardiac means \u2018heart\u2019 and arrest “means \u2018to stop\u2019 or \u2018to cease.\u2019 Any time you see the term \u2018arrest\u2019 next with a system, it refers to a system or organ of the body that ceasing its function.<\/p>\n
The electrical impulses in our heart control our heartbeat. It is done by sending an electrical signal through the tiny cells in our heart walls. When there are changes in the impulses pattern, the heartbeat may become irregular. This condition is known as arrhythmia. Some arrhythmias are slow, while others are rapid. Cardiac arrest occurs once the normal function of the heart is interrupted and the heart rhythm stops.<\/p>\n
Sudden cardiac arrest is an extremely serious health issue. The Institute of Medicine reports that every year, approximately half a million people experience cardiac arrest<\/a> in the United States alone. That is equivalent to 0.1% of the United States population who will experience out-of-hospital cardiac arrest every year. European counties also have a similar incidence, with the range 0.04% to 0.1% of the whole population. The median age for cardiac arrest is between age 66 and 68. Research also shows that males are more likely to suffer from sudden cardiac arrest than women.<\/p>\n Cardiac arrest can cause sudden death or disability. If you or someone you are with is showing symptoms of cardiac arrest, seek emergency help immediately. Immediate response and first aid treatment can save a life.<\/p>\n