Cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops beating the right way. The heart’s job is to pump blood to the brain and body. But during cardiac arrest, the heart stops doing that, so blood and oxygen can’t reach the brain. This makes the person collapse, stop breathing, and become unconscious very quickly.

If help doesn’t come fast, the person can die in a few minutes. That’s why it’s an emergency.

What Happens to the Person?

When someone has a cardiac arrest, they may suddenly fall down. They won’t respond when you talk to them or touch them. They may stop breathing or breathe strangely, like gasping. Their skin might look pale or bluish. Their pulse (heartbeat) can’t be felt, because the heart has stopped working.

What Causes Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest usually happens because of a problem in the heart’s electrical system. This system controls how the heart beats. When it goes wrong, the heart may beat too fast, too slow, or stop completely.

Some causes include:

• A heart attack (when blood flow to the heart is blocked)

• Heart disease or weak heart muscles

• Drowning, choking, or electric shock

• Heavy injury or blood loss

• Drug overdose

• Certain inherited heart conditions (passed on from parents)

Is Cardiac Arrest the Same as a Heart Attack?

No, they are different. A heart attack happens when part of the heart doesn’t get enough blood, but the heart usually keeps beating. In a cardiac arrest, the heart completely stops beating or beats in a way that doesn’t pump blood. A heart attack can sometimes cause cardiac arrest, but not always.

What to Do in an Emergency?

If someone suddenly collapses and doesn’t breathe or wake up, you must act fast:

1. Call emergency services (like 108 or 112).

2. Start CPR – push hard and fast in the middle of the chest to help keep blood flowing.

3. Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if there is one nearby. It gives a small shock to the heart to try to restart it.

   
   

Can People Survive a Cardiac Arrest?

Yes, they can — but only if they get help quickly. Starting CPR right away and using an AED within minutes can save their life. That’s why it’s important for people to know what to do and act fast.