Cardiac Arrest: What You Need to Know Before It Strikes
What is Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest is a sudden, life-threatening condition where the heart unexpectedly stops beating, cutting off blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. According to global medical authorities, it is one of the leading causes of sudden death if not treated within minutes. Unlike a heart attack, which involves a blockage, cardiac arrest is primarily an electrical malfunction of the heart.
At Sridhaa Heart & Endocrine Super Specialty Clinic, under the expert care of Dr. Pathakota Sudhakar Reddy, we specialize in the advanced diagnosis, immediate response, and long-term management of cardiac arrest and other complex heart conditions.
Key Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest:
Although cardiac arrest often strikes without warning, some patients may experience warning signs like:
- Sudden collapse
- Loss of consciousness
- Absence of breathing or pulse
- Chest pain or tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
In some cases, especially among young individuals, cardiac arrest may stem from genetic or structural abnormalities.
Common Causes of Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac Causes:
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) – the most common underlying cause.
Heart Failure
Ventricular Arrhythmias like ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF)
Congenital Heart Defects
Cardiomyopathies (e.g., hypertrophic, dilated)
Electrical conduction disorders (e.g., Long QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome)
Non-Cardiac Causes:
- Severe electrolyte imbalances
- Respiratory arrest
- Pulmonary embolism
- Drug overdose or poisoning
- Trauma or injury to the chest
Who is at Risk?
Certain factors increase the likelihood of sudden cardiac arrest, including:
- Previous history of heart disease
- Family history of sudden cardiac death
- Smoking or excessive alcohol consumption
- Obesity or sedentary lifestyle
- High blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol
- Use of stimulant drugs or certain medications
- Stress and anxiety disorders
Men over 45 years old and individuals with poorly managed heart conditions are particularly vulnerable.
Types of Cardiac Arrest (Based on ECG Rhythm)
- Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) – disorganized heartbeat
- Pulseless Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) – fast, ineffective rhythm
- Pulseless Electrical Activity (PEA) – electrical signals without actual pumping
- Asystole – complete absence of heart activity (flatline)
How is Cardiac Arrest Diagnosed?
During a cardiac arrest emergency, diagnosis is primarily clinical:
- No pulse or breathing
- Unconsciousness
- Dilated, unresponsive pupils
To determine the cause post-resuscitation, Dr. Sudhakar Reddy may use:
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Echocardiography
- Blood tests for potassium, magnesium, and cardiac enzymes
- Cardiac imaging
- Coronary angiography, if required
Immediate Treatment of Cardiac Arrest At Sridhaa Clinic, we follow evidence-based protocols for cardiac emergencies. Treatment involves:
- CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation):
Early chest compressions to maintain circulation. - Defibrillation:
An electric shock to restore normal rhythm, using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). - Advanced Life Support (ALS) :
IV medications, oxygen support, airway management, and continuous monitoring. - Post-Resuscitation Care:
Targeted temperature management
Cardiac catheterization
Neurological assessment
Long-Term Management After Cardiac Arrest
Survivors of cardiac arrest require a comprehensive heart health plan:
- Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs)
- Medication management (beta-blockers, antiarrhythmics)
- Lifestyle changes (smoking cessation, weight loss, stress control)
Cardiac rehabilitation programs
At Sridhaa Heart & Endocrine Super Specialty Clinic, Dr. Sudhakar Reddy tailors individualized care plans to prevent recurrence and improve heart function.
Prevention of Cardiac Arrest
- Simple Lifestyle Changes Can Save Lives: Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
- Manage stress effectively.
- Control underlying conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
- Attend regular heart check-ups, especially if there’s a family history of heart disease.
Why Choose Dr. Pathakota Sudhakar Reddy?
With over 19 years of clinical experience, Dr. Pathakota Sudhakar Reddy is a highly respected Consultant Interventional Cardiologist. He is known for his clinical precision, compassionate care, and expertise in advanced cardiac interventions, including the management of life-threatening arrhythmias and cardiac arrest.
Visit Us:
Sridhaa Heart & Endocrine Super Specialty Clinic
📍 Plot No. 230, 2nd Floor, Nagarjuna Colony, beside Baker Q, Hasthinapuram South, Hyderabad, Telangana 500070.
📞 Call: 088976 87373

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The Common category includes then following block: Paragraph, image, heading, latest gallery, quote, audio, cover, video. The paragraphs block is the default block type. This is should not to have any alignment of any kind.
The Common category includes then following block: Paragraph, image, heading, latest gallery, quote, audio, cover, video. The paragraphs block is the default block type. This is should not have any there alignment of any kind. Category and then there are many things too following blocks and many more.
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