Cardiac problems are very common among many people, and those with a history of such issues should be in touch with a good cardiac doctor in Sri Lanka through a channelling centre in Colombo, to ensure they get regular check-ups and the right care.

Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency where the heart suddenly stops beating effectively. This results in the cessation of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs, leading to a loss of consciousness and, if not treated immediately, can be fatal. It may require emergency surgery in Sri Lanka.

The primary causes of cardiac arrest can include:

·       Heart disease: such as coronary artery disease or heart attack.

·       Arrhythmias: abnormal heart rhythms, like ventricular fibrillation or tachycardia.

·       Severe trauma or injury.

·       Electrolyte imbalances or other medical conditions.

Immediate treatment is crucial and typically involves cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation, if needed, to restore the heart’s normal rhythm.

What are the key signs of cardiac arrest and how do you differentiate it from other illnesses?

The key signs of cardiac arrest include:

·       Sudden Loss of Consciousness: The person may collapse and become unresponsive almost immediately.

·       Absence of Breathing: They may not be breathing or only gasping intermittently.

·       No Pulse: There will be no detectable heartbeat.

Differentiating cardiac arrest from other illnesses:

·       Sudden Onset: Cardiac arrest usually occurs suddenly without warning, whereas other conditions like a stroke or heart attack may have preceding symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.

·       Unresponsiveness: While some illnesses can cause confusion or altered mental status, cardiac arrest leads to a complete loss of consciousness and responsiveness.

·       Breathing: In cases of respiratory issues or choking, a person may still have some breathing but with difficulty. In cardiac arrest, breathing is typically absent.

·       Pulse: In other heart conditions, a weak or irregular pulse might be present, but in cardiac arrest, the pulse is usually undetectable.

If you suspect someone is having a cardiac arrest, it is crucial to start CPR immediately and call emergency services. Differentiating between conditions quickly can be challenging, so focusing on immediate response is key. Usually, this condition may lead to emergency heart surgery in a private hospital in Colombo.

What action should you take during cardiac arrest?

If you suspect someone is experiencing cardiac arrest, here are the immediate actions you should take:

1.     Call for Help: Dial emergency services right away. Inform them that the person is unresponsive and not breathing.

2.     Check for Responsiveness: Gently shake the person and shout to see if they respond. If they do not, proceed to the next steps.

3.     Check Breathing: Look for chest movement and listen for breathing. If the person is not breathing or only gasping, this indicates cardiac arrest.

4.     Start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation):

·       Place the person on a firm, flat surface.

·       Chest Compressions: Place the heel of one hand on the centre of the chest (just below the nipples), interlock your fingers with your other hand on top, and push hard and fast (about 2 inches deep and at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute). Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.

·       Rescue Breaths: If trained, give 2 rescue breaths after every 30 compressions. Tilt the head back slightly, pinch the nose, cover the person’s mouth with yours, and give a breath that makes the chest rise. Continue cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until emergency personnel arrive or the person shows signs of recovery.

5.     Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator): If available, turn it on and follow the voice prompts. Place the AED pads on the person’s bare chest as indicated and let the AED analyse the heart rhythm. If a shock is advised, follow the instructions to deliver it. Resume CPR immediately after the shock if needed.

6.     Continue Until Help Arrives: Keep performing CPR and using the AED as instructed until professional help arrives or the person shows signs of consciousness.

Taking these actions promptly can significantly increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest.

How to be prepared for and avoid cardiac related problems

To be prepared for and reduce the risk of cardiac-related problems, you can follow these preventive measures:

Preventive Measures:

1.     Maintain a Healthy Diet:

·       Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

·       Limit saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium.

·       Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods.

2.     Exercise Regularly:

·       Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity each week.

·       Include strength training exercises at least twice a week.

3.     Monitor and Manage Weight:

·       Achieve and maintain a healthy weight to reduce the burden on your heart.

4.     Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol:

·       Quit smoking and avoid exposure to tobacco smoke.

·       Limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels (up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men).

5.     Control Blood Pressure:

·       Regularly check your blood pressure and follow medical advice to keep it within a healthy range.

·       Reduce sodium intake and manage stress to help control blood pressure.

6.     Manage Cholesterol Levels:

·       Get regular cholesterol screenings and manage levels through diet, exercise, and medication if necessary.

7.     Control Blood Sugar:

·       If you have diabetes or prediabetes, manage your blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication as prescribed.

8.     Stay Hydrated:

·       Drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain overall health.

9.     Reduce Stress:

·       Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies.

10.  Get Regular Check-Ups:

·       Visit your healthcare provider for regular check-ups and screenings to catch any potential issues early.

Preparedness for Emergencies:

·       Learn CPR and First Aid: Take a CPR and first aid course to be prepared for emergencies.

·       Know Your Family History: Be aware of any family history of heart disease or related conditions and discuss it with your healthcare provider.

·       Keep Emergency Contacts Accessible: Have emergency contact numbers and medical information readily accessible.

·       Have an Action Plan: Create a plan for what to do in case of a cardiac emergency, including knowing where the nearest AED is located.

By integrating these practices into your lifestyle, you can significantly lower your risk of cardiac-related problems and be better prepared to respond in an emergency.