Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can strike anyone. There is no single profile for those at risk for SCA, which usually occurs without previous symptoms, although some people may experience dizziness, fast heart rhythm, or fainting. A victim of SCA is typically: Unconscious Has no signs of circulation (e.g. no pulse) Not breathing

It is important to know the difference between SCA and a heart attack because the treatment for each is different:

• For a heart attack, medical professionals must administer medications, other life-saving procedures, and sometimes surgery, to unblock blood flow to the heart muscle. Time is important, with the best results occurring if treatment is received in the first hour of symptoms. In its acute phase, a heart attack might be associated with a variety of symptoms (chest pain, nausea, shortness of breath,…) including SCA.
• For SCA, an electrical shock from a defibrillator must be delivered, the sooner the better, otherwise the victim will likely die. Laypersons can be easily trained to use an AED, thus dramatically increasing the odds of saving someone's life.

Make sure you know what to do in case of an emergency

Last Updated on: 20.01.2005