Cardiac Arrest
The heart suddenly stops pumping, so the person collapses, stops breathing normally and loses consciousness. Immediate CPR and defibrillation can save a life.
Causes & risk factors
- Dangerous heart rhythms (often after a heart attack)
- Severe heart disease or cardiomyopathy
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Drowning, choking or electrocution
- Certain drug overdoses
Common symptoms
Tests & diagnosis
Treatment & management
- Call your local emergency number and start CPR immediately
- Use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available
- Continue chest compressions until help arrives
- Advanced life support and treating the cause in hospital
- Intensive care and monitoring after recovery
When to see a doctor urgently
- Call your local emergency number now if someone collapses and is not breathing normally
- Start hands-only CPR straight away — push hard and fast on the centre of the chest
- Send someone for the nearest AED
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about cardiac arrest. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is cardiac arrest the same as a heart attack?
No — a heart attack is a blockage; cardiac arrest is the heart stopping. A heart attack can trigger cardiac arrest.
Can I harm someone by doing CPR wrongly?
Doing nothing is far more dangerous. Hands-only CPR greatly improves survival, so act immediately.
Explore more
MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.