What is double cardiac arrest? How to enhance probabilities of survival

Brazilian health influencer Larissa Borges, 33, died of double cardiac arrest leaving followers and household in shock. The first cardiac arrest that despatched Borges in coma was adopted by a second cardiac arrest which led to her dying. Cardiac arrest happens when the center immediately and unexpectedly stops pumping attributable to which the blood stops flowing to the mind and different important organs of the physique. People who’ve a household historical past of coronary heart illness, hypertension, excessive ldl cholesterol, and who bask in smoking and consuming are extra prone for cardiac arrest. (Also learn: Sudden cardiac arrest in children: Warning signs and symptoms, prevention tips)

“Cardiac arrests are caused by certain types of arrhythmias (a problem with the rate or rhythm of your heartbeat) that prevent the heart from pumping blood,” says Dr Kunal Sinkar, Consultant Cardiologist, Holy Family Hospital, Bandra, Mumbai.

While individuals use cardiac arrest and coronary heart assault interchangeably, they’re completely different from one another.

“Sudden heart attack is different from cardiac arrest. Heart attack occurs when blood flow to a portion of the heart is obstructed. A blockage is not the cause of sudden cardiac arrest. A heart attack, on the other hand, might produce a shift in the electrical activity of the heart, leading to rapid cardiac arrest,” says the professional.

Symptoms of cardiac arrest

• Chest ache or discomfort
• Increased heartbeat
• Unexplained wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness

What is double cardiac arrest?

“Double cardiac arrest occurs when the heart’s atria and ventricles both undergo cardiac arrest simultaneously. In a common cardiac arrest scenario, an arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) in either the atria or the ventricles would occur, which would result in a loss of efficient pumping motion. When the atria and ventricles are both damaged at the same time, it is a particularly serious and deadly situation because the heart is unable to pump blood adequately, depriving the body’s essential organs, including the brain, of oxygen and blood,” says Dr Sinkar.

What causes double cardiac arrest?

Double cardiac arrest is a really uncommon and harmful medical emergency that may happen in these with pre-existing coronary heart issues or cardiac threat components.

“Cardiac arrest is more likely to occur in people with a history of coronary artery disease or significant heart artery blockages. Cardiac arrest may result from heart attack damage to the heart muscle and disruption of the electrical conduction system. A family history of sudden cardiac arrest or certain heart conditions may indicate a higher risk. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, a family history of sudden cardiac arrest, a family history of sudden cardiac arrest, can also lead to cardiac arrest,” says Dr Sinkar.

How can double cardiac arrest be handled or prevented?

Double cardiac arrest is deadlier than a typical cardiac arrest however well timed therapy can enhance odds of survival.

“The chances of survival are typically lower in double cardiac arrest than in cases of single-chamber cardiac arrest. However, it is not always fatal. Quick and efficient intervention such as CPR and defibrillation can be life-saving procedures if started during the first few minutes after the incident,” says Dr Sinkar.