Cardiac Arrest Treatment in Delhi, India

Cardiac arrest, also known as cardiopulmonary or cardiovascular arrest, is a sudden and unexpected loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness. During cardiac arrest, there is a sudden loss of heart function. The heart stops beating or beats too fast, stopping blood circulation to the brain and entire body. As a result, people suffering from cardiac arrest collapse and turn unresponsive.

Cardiac arrests are sudden and they usually occur due to irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmias) or very slow heart rate called as bradycardia or complete heart block. The heart’s electrical impulses don't work correctly, which results in abnormal heartbeats. The most common abnormal heart rhythm during cardiac arrest is the rapid or erratic electrical impulses in the heart's lower chamber, also known as ventricular fibrillation. Some heart conditions that could be a reason for cardiac arrest are as follows:

Coronary Artery Disease(CAD): Coronary artery disease develops when the blood vessels which supply blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the heart, are blocked or damaged. It is one of the major causes of cardiac arrest.

Valvular Heart Disease: Narrowing of heart valves can thicken the heart muscle, which in return may cause cardiac arrest.

Cardiomyopathy: People with abnormally large hearts are at higher risk of sudden cardiac arrest.

Congenital Heart Disease: Congenital abnormalities of the heart can also be one of the reasons for suffering from sudden cardiac arrest.

Electrical Abnormalities: Researchers have found out that problems with the heart's electrical system can be the reason for cardiac arrest.

Several factors increase the risk of cardiac arrest, including:

Gender: Men are more likely to experience cardiac arrest than women.

Family history of heart disease: People with a family history of heart disease are at increased risk of cardiac arrest.

High blood pressure: High blood pressure damages the blood vessels and heart, and it increases the risk of blood clots.

Diabetes: People with diabetes have a higher risk of cardiac arrest because diabetes can damage the blood vessels and heart.

High blood cholesterol: High blood cholesterol can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots.

Smoking: Smoking damages the heart and blood vessels, and it increases the risk of blood clots.

Inactive lifestyle: People who are inactive have a higher risk of cardiac arrest because their heart muscles are not as strong.

Lack of exercise: People who do not exercise regularly have a higher risk of cardiac arrest.

Obesity: Obesity is a risk factor for cardiac arrest because it can put extra strain on the heart.

Obstructive sleep apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep. This can lead to low oxygen levels in the blood, which can put a strain on the heart.

A previousheart attack: People who have had a heart attack are at increased risk of cardiac arrest.

Substance abuse: Substance abuse, such as cocaine and methamphetamine use, can increase the risk of cardiac arrest.

Older age: The risk of cardiac arrest increases with age.

Stress: Severe stress can trigger a heart attack, which can lead to cardiac arrest.

It is important to note that not everyone with these risk factors will experience cardiac arrest. However, it is important to be aware of these risk factors so that you can take steps to reduce your risk.

Cardiac arrests are drastic and immediate. But sometimes other cardiac arrest symptoms might occur before the cardiac arrest. For instance, patients might experience the following symptoms before a cardiac arrest. 

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Vomit
• Fatigue or weakness
• Heart palpitation
• Sudden collapse

The person would need immediate emergency care if the following cardiac arrest symptoms are present:

• No pulse
• Chest pain
• Not breathing or making gasping sounds
• Unresponsive to touch or sound

Once the patient receives emergency immediate medical care after a sudden cardiac arrest, the cardiac specialists perform a series of tests and diagnosis to determine the root cause of cardiac arrest. These tests may include:

• Blood Tests: The tests are performed to check for enzymes or any heart attack. The tests also check for fats, lipid profile, cholesterol levels, minerals, and chemicals present in the body.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): The test is performed to check for the speed and rhythm of the heart using an electric current.
• Echocardiogram: The test is performed to check for the damaged part of the heart. During the process, the doctor uses sound waves to capture an image of the heart.
• Coronary Angiography: The test is done using X-ray imaging to check the heart's blood vessels. The doctor injects a dye into the arteries using a catheter and reviews the results on an X-ray screen during the test.
• Chest X-ray: The test allows the doctor to check the size and shape of the heart and blood vessels.
• Nuclear Stress Test: The test is performed with a stress test. During the procedure, the doctor injects radioactive material into the bloodstream. The doctor then uses a special camera to detect the material moving through the heart and lungs.
• Intracardiac electrophysiology study (EPS): The test checks for the heart's electrical signal functions. The EPS test is used to check for irregular heartbeats.
• Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): The test is performed to get a 3D image of the heart.

A cardiac arrest requires immediate medical care to restart the heart and restore the regular rhythm. The cardiac arrest treatment may include:

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

CPR is one of the most crucial treatments given to survive a cardiac arrest. CPR can provide a vital link until emergency services arrive. The treatment uses fast chest compressions to mimic the heart's pumping action. It helps move small amounts of blood from the heart to the brain. Earlier the CPR given is better.

Defibrillator & Pacemaker

The treatment is advanced care for cardiac arrest. The automatic defibrillator uses electric shock to restart the heart and allows it to beat again. Pacemakers are used to regain the normal heart rate if patient has a very slow heart rate after recovery of heart attack. Once the patient survives the cardiac arrest, the doctor will discuss various tests to determine the cause. The doctor may also suggest the following treatment to reduce the risk of cardiac arrest in the future:

Medications

Doctors will prescribe various anti-arrhythmic drugs for complications related to arrhythmia. The doctor may also prescribe beta-blockers, blood thinners, nitrates, and other supportive drugs to prevent future cardiac arrest.

Coronary Angiography & Angioplasty

Coronary angiography is a diagnostic procedure which determines the blockages in the blood vessel of heart. The doctor inserts a tiny balloon into the blocked or narrowed artery using a catheter during the procedure. The balloon is then inflated, and the surgeon adds a mesh-like tube made of metal (commonly known as a stent) into the artery and places it there permanently.

Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD)

This is a portable device that monitors the heart rhythm. The surgeon places the ICD near the left collarbone and connects the wires through the veins to the heart. The device monitors the electrical signals. If it detects a rhythm change, it sends low or high energy shocks to reset the heart to a normal rhythm.

Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

In this surgery, the doctor harvest a healthy blood vessel from the body usually the veins from the leg or blood vessels from the chest. The doctors then connect the veins or arteries beyond the narrowed artery to create a new passage for the blood flow to the heart.

There are some ways through which one can prevent cardiac arrest, including:

• Increasing physical activity
• Eating a healthy diet
• Losing weight
• Quitting Tobacco or Not Smoking
• Reducing stress level
• Limiting alcohol consumption
• Monitoring heart conditions regularly &
• Good control of blood pressure, blood sugar & cholesterol

Cardiac arrest or cardiovascular arrest may cause some severe complications, such as

• Long standing heart disease with poor heart functions
• Brain injury
• Infection
• Other organ dysfunction

Most people are not able to survive cardiac arrest. However, immediate treatment may increase the chance of survival. The long-term outlook for cardiac arrest depends on the reason behind it. Therefore, one needs to work closely with the medical team to reduce the risk of cardiac arrest in future.

Is sudden cardiac arrest the same as a heart attack?

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) and a heart attack, or myocardial infarction, are not the same. SCA is an electrical malfunction in the heart, causing it to stop beating effectively, resulting in an abrupt loss of consciousness and the absence of a pulse. On the other hand, a heart attack is a circulation problem, occurring when a coronary artery is blocked, reducing blood flow to a part of the heart muscle and leading to chest pain or discomfort. A massive heart attack can cause cardiac arrest.

Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with surviving a cardiac arrest?

Yes, surviving a cardiac arrest does have long term effects and consequences. Survivors may face cognitive, physical, and heart-related challenges, including memory issues, weakness, and potential heart damage, which require ongoing care.

Are there any hereditary factors that may increase the risk of cardiac arrest?

Yes, certain heart conditions can have a genetic component, and a family history of heart issues can increase the risk of cardiac arrest. For instance, certain heart conditions with a genetic component, like Long QT Syndrome, Brugada Syndrome, or familial dilated cardiomyopathy, can increase the risk of cardiac arrest when there's a family history of these heart issues.

What caused my cardiopulmonary arrest, and am I at risk for another one?

The cause of your cardiac arrest may vary, but it's essential to identify any underlying heart conditions. You are at a heightened risk for another cardiac arrest, especially if the cause is due to a heart issue. Ongoing medical evaluation and management are crucial to mitigate this risk.

How can I improve my heart health and overall well-being after surviving a cardiovascular arrest?

You can enhance your heart health and overall well-being by adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, medication compliance, and stress management. Your healthcare provider can offer personalised guidance.

Can I return to work or resume normal activities, and if so, when?

Your ability to return to work and normal activities after a cardiac arrest depends on various factors, including your overall health and the nature of your job. Your healthcare provider can assess your condition and provide guidance on a safe and gradual return to work and daily life.

What is the long-term prognosis for someone who has survived a cardiac arrest?

The long-term prognosis varies depending on individual factors and the cause of the cardiac arrest. With proper medical care and lifestyle changes, many people go on to lead fulfilling lives. Regular follow-up appointments and adherence to treatment plans are critical for a positive long-term prognosis.

What lifestyle changes do I need to make to reduce my risk of future cardiac events?

Lifestyle changes are essential to reduce the risk of future cardiac events. This includes adopting a heart-healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, regular exercise, and managing stress. Your healthcare provider can offer specific recommendations based on your condition, periodical preventing health check ups.

How frequently should I have follow-up appointments with my healthcare provider after surviving a cardiac arrest?

Follow-up appointments should be scheduled regularly, as advised by your healthcare provider. Typically, these appointments are more frequent immediately after a cardiac arrest and may become less frequent as your condition stabilises. They are essential for ongoing evaluation, medication management, and assessing your heart's health.

How do I choose the right cardiologist at Max Hospitals in Delhi, India?

At Max Hospitals in Delhi, India, we have a team of some of the best cardiologists in India. Our cardiologists are highly qualified and experienced, and they are committed to providing the best possible care to their patients.

Reviewed by Dr. Anand Kumar Pandey, Senior Director - Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology, Cardiac Sciences on 11 June 2024.

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