🚨 Cardiac Arrest: Know the Signs & Act Fast – Expert Insights by Dr. Priyam Mukherjee
Cardiac arrest is a life-threatening emergency that can happen to anyone, anytime. It occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, cutting off blood flow to the brain and vital organs. Without immediate medical help, it can be fatal within minutes.
In this blog, Dr. Priyam Mukherjee, a leading cardiologist, explains the causes, symptoms, and emergency steps everyone should know to save a life.
❤️ What is Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest is the sudden and unexpected loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness. It’s not the same as a heart attack, though the two are related. A heart attack can sometimes trigger cardiac arrest.
When the heart stops pumping, blood no longer reaches the brain and organs—causing the person to collapse, lose consciousness, and stop breathing.
⚠️ What Causes Cardiac Arrest?
According to Dr. Priyam Mukherjee, common causes include:
- Heart attack
- Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
- Heart failure or cardiomyopathy
- Electrolyte imbalances (potassium, magnesium)
- Congenital heart defects
- Severe blood loss or trauma
- Drug overdose or poisoning
🚨 Warning Signs to Watch Out For
While cardiac arrest often happens suddenly, some people experience early symptoms like:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat)
- Dizziness or fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Unexplained fatigue
The most dramatic sign is sudden collapse, followed by no pulse and no breathing.
🆘 What to Do: Emergency Response
Dr. Mukherjee emphasizes that every second counts. Here’s what you should do:
- Check if the person is responsive and breathing.
- Call emergency services immediately (Dial 108 in India).
- Start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) – Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (100–120 compressions/minute).
- Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if available.
- Continue CPR until medical help arrives or the person revives.
Quick CPR and defibrillation can double or triple the chances of survival.
🩺 Prevention: How to Lower the Risk
Dr. Priyam Mukherjee recommends the following to reduce the risk of cardiac arrest:
- Control high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Exercise regularly
- Eat a heart-healthy diet
- Go for regular heart check-ups, especially if you have a family history of cardiac issues
🩶 Final Thoughts from Dr. Priyam Mukherjee
“Cardiac arrest doesn’t give a warning—it gives a test of your readiness. Learn CPR, stay heart-aware, and never ignore early symptoms. Your quick action can save a life.”
If you or a loved one experiences unexplained chest pain or fainting, consult a cardiologist immediately. Early intervention saves lives.