1. Sudden Loss of Consciousness
One of the primary warning signs of cardiac arrest is a sudden loss of consciousness. The person may collapse suddenly without any previous signs of distress. This loss of consciousness occurs because the heart is unable to pump enough blood to the brain.
2. Absence of Breathing
If a person is experiencing cardiac arrest, they will not be breathing or gasping for air. This absence of breathing is another crucial warning sign. It indicates that the heart has stopped functioning, causing the person to lose consciousness and their breathing to cease.
3. Unresponsiveness
When someone goes into cardiac arrest, they will be unresponsive. You may try calling their name or shaking them, but there will be no response. This lack of response is due to the brain not receiving the necessary oxygen and nutrients it requires.
4. No Pulse
During cardiac arrest, the heart stops beating effectively or completely. When you check for a pulse in a person experiencing cardiac arrest, you will not be able to find one. No detectable pulse is a clear indication of an emergency and the need for immediate intervention.
What to Do During Cardiac Arrest?
Recognizing the warning signs of cardiac arrest is crucial, but knowing what to do is equally important. Follow these steps if you encounter someone experiencing cardiac arrest:
- Call for Help: Dial your local emergency number or instruct someone nearby to do so.
- Perform CPR: Start performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest continuously at a rate of about 100 compressions per minute. If possible, use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if one is available.
- Get Medical Assistance: Continue performing CPR until medical professionals arrive and take over. Quick action is essential in improving the chances of survival in cardiac arrest cases.
Being aware of the warning signs of cardiac arrest is crucial for everyone. By recognizing the symptoms and taking immediate action, you can potentially save a life. Remember to call for help, perform CPR, and get medical assistance as soon as possible. The quicker you respond, the higher the chances of survival. Spread awareness about the warning signs of cardiac arrest, as this knowledge can make a significant difference in emergencies.