Cardiac death

Cardiac Death refers to the cessation of the heart's function, leading to the end of blood circulation and, ultimately, the death of the individual. It is a significant cause of mortality worldwide, with various underlying causes such as coronary artery disease, cardiac arrhythmias, and congenital heart defects.

Definition

Cardiac death, also known as cardiac arrest, is defined as the sudden stop in effective blood flow due to the failure of the heart to contract effectively. It is different from a heart attack, which is caused by a blockage that stops blood flow to a part of the heart.

Causes

The most common cause of cardiac death is coronary artery disease. Other significant causes include major blood loss, lack of oxygen, very high potassium levels, very low potassium levels, hypothermia, and cardiomyopathy.

Prevention

Prevention of cardiac death involves managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, lack of physical activity, obesity, and high cholesterol. This can be achieved through a healthy diet, regular exercise, not smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Treatment

Treatment for cardiac death is immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and, if a defibrillator is available, defibrillation. In some cases, an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or pacemaker may be placed.

Prognosis

The prognosis for cardiac death is generally poor. Only about 10% of people who experience cardiac death outside a hospital survive. However, survival rates can increase with immediate treatment and use of a defibrillator.

See Also

• Coronary artery disease
• Cardiac arrhythmia
• Congenital heart defect
• Cardiomyopathy
• Heart attack
• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• Defibrillator