Cardiac Arrest

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 27 September 2026

The heart suddenly stops pumping, so the person collapses, stops breathing normally and loses consciousness. Immediate CPR and defibrillation can save a life.

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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

Sudden collapse
No response and no normal breathing
No pulse
Sometimes chest pain just before

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.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. 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.