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This results in an immediate loss of blood flow to the body and brain, leading to a loss of consciousness within seconds. If left untreated, cardiac arrest can quickly turn fatal. The main cause of cardiac arrest is a malfunction in the heart's electrical system, which disrupts its ability to pump blood effectively. This malfunction is typically due to a sudden onset of abnormal heart rhythms, such as ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia. Other underlying causes include coronary artery disease, heart attacks, heart failure, and various cardiac conditions. Symptoms of cardiac arrest include sudden collapse, loss of consciousness, no pulse, and irregular or absent breathing. Immediate action is crucial to improve the chances of survival. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be performed by bystanders to maintain blood flow until professional help arrives. Defibrillation, a process of delivering an electric shock to the heart, is often required to restore normal heart rhythms. The management of cardiac arrest involves a coordinated response by emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, including advanced life support measures such as intubation and administration of medications. In-hospital management may involve therapeutic hypothermia to reduce brain damage and other intensive care interventions. Survival rates for cardiac arrest vary widely, with factors such as the location of the event, bystander intervention, and the speed of medical response being significant determinants. Prompt recognition, early CPR, and immediate access to defibrillation are critical for the best possible outcome. Public awareness, training in CPR, and the availability of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in public spaces have been crucial in enhancing survival rates. Prevention of cardiac arrest involves managing risk factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol levels, diabetes, and smoking. Lifestyle modifications, including regular exercise, healthy diet, and avoiding illicit drug use, can significantly reduce the risk. Additionally, individuals with known cardiac conditions should receive appropriate medical treatments and adhere to prescribed medications. This Wikipedia page provides comprehensive information on cardiac arrest, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. It also covers related topics such as sudden cardiac death, resuscitation techniques, and advances in resuscitation science.