What Triggers Cardiac Emergencies? Know The Signs, Risks & How To Stay Safe

06/19/2025

What Are Cardiac Emergencies?
Cardiac emergencies are severe heart-related conditions requiring instant medical attention. The two most prevalent ones are heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest. These could lead to permanent damage to the heart, or even death, if not addressed in time.

A heart attack happens when the blood supply to one part of the heart muscle is stopped.
A sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating because of an electrical malfunction.
Both are emergencies and demand rapid treatment.
What Causes or Triggers Cardiac Emergencies?
Cardiac emergencies do not occur without cause. Some physical and lifestyle-related triggers can heighten the risk:

1. Blocked Arteries
One of the primary factors of heart attacks includes a blockage in the arteries that lead to the heart. This is usually as a result of coronary artery disease, where cholesterol and fat accumulate over time and develop plaques.

2. High Blood Pressure
If your blood pressure is consistently high for a long time, it causes additional strain on your blood vessels and heart. Over time, this can result in heart failure or even trigger a cardiac event.

3. High Cholesterol
Having too much bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood may lead to the accumulation of plaque in arteries. When these plaques are ruptured, they may develop clots that cut off blood flow and cause a heart attack.

4. Diabetes
Uncontrolled diabetes hurts the blood vessels and nerves that regulate the heart. Diabetes increases people's chances of developing heart disease by many times.

5. Smoking
Smoking is a big stimulus. It hurts your heart, decreases oxygen in your blood, and raises blood pressure—all of which can cause heart emergencies.

6. Obesity and Lack of Exercise
Being overweight pushes the heart to labor more and increases the chance of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Physical inactivity is also a cause of poor heart condition.

7. Stress and Emotional Shock
Severe emotional stress or an acute shock may occasionally induce cardiac arrest, particularly in those with pre-existing heart issues.
What Are the Common Signs of a Cardiac Emergency?
Being aware of the cardiac emergency signs can assist you or another person in receiving assistance on time. Following are what you need to look out for:

Symptoms of Heart Attack:
Chest pain or pressure (usually tightness or squeezing)
Pain radiating to the arms, back, neck, or jaw
Shortness of breath
Sweating
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
Unusual tiredness, particularly in females

At other times, heart attack signs are modest or ignored. This is particularly prevalent in older patients and patients with diabetes.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest Symptoms:
Sudden collapse
No pulse
No breathing
Loss of consciousness
A person might display warning symptoms such as chest pain or abnormal heartbeat in some instances just before the cardiac arrest is witnessed.
What's the Difference Between a Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest?
A heart attack is a circulation issue—it occurs when blood supply to the heart is interrupted. The heart continues to beat, but the heart muscle becomes injured because of insufficient oxygen. 

A sudden cardiac arrest is an electrical issue—the heart abruptly ceases to beat effectively. Without a heartbeat, blood flow to the brain and other vital organs is impaired, and the victim can die within a few minutes.

Important note: A heart attack may sometimes result in cardiac arrest if it is not addressed urgently.
What Do You Do in a Cardiac Crisis?
Rushing during a cardiac crisis can save a life. Here's what you do:
Call for emergency help immediately. Call 108 to get an ambulance.
Make the individual sit calmly. If it's a heart attack, don't allow them to walk or lie down flat.
Give aspirin if available. Chewing one low-dose aspirin may help if a heart attack is suspected (only if the person is not allergic).
Start CPR if the person is unconscious and not breathing. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (100–120 compressions per minute).
Use an AED if available. An AED (automated external defibrillator) can restart the heart during cardiac arrest.
What Is CPR and Why Should Every Person Learn It?
CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a skill that saves lives by keeping the blood and oxygen pumping to the brain after the heart has stopped. It ensures greater chances of survival in case of an unexpected cardiac arrest.

You do not have to be a physician to learn CPR. There are introductory courses in most metropolitan cities. It's an easy yet effective means of saving a life.

Persuade schools, offices, and housing societies to provide CPR training. The more individuals who learn it, the safer your community will be.
How Can You Prevent Cardiac Emergencies?
The majority of cardiac emergencies are associated with long-term lifestyle and medical conditions. This leaves you with the opportunity to lower your risk through some easy lifestyle modifications.

1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Select more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Steer clear of fried foods, sweet snacks, and saturated fats. Add less salt to your meals.

2. Be Active
Try at least 30 minutes of brisk walking or other moderate physical activity five times a week. Even household chores or climbing stairs benefit your heart.

3. Give Up Smoking
If you smoke, quit. Smoking is a major risk factor for heart issues.

4. Cut down on Alcohol
Excessive alcohol increases blood pressure and hurts the heart. Drink moderately—or stop entirely if you are at risk.

5. Reduce Stress
Cruel stress hurts your heart. Attempt yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or a conversation with a friend to reduce tension.

6. Monitor Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, and Diabetes
See your doctor periodically. If you have these conditions, take your medication. Monitor your numbers.

7. Get Routine Heart Checkups
If you're over 40, or if heart disease is in your family, don't delay. Have a heart check-up in your area annually.
Who Is at Greater Risk for Cardiac Emergencies?
There are certain individuals who have a greater likelihood of having a heart attack or cardiac arrest. These include:
Individuals with high blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes
Individuals with a history of heart disease in the family
Smokers and alcoholics
Overweight or physically inactive individuals
Individuals experiencing chronic stress
Men aged 45 years and above and women aged 55 years and above
Still, cardiac emergencies may also occur in young individuals. That's why prevention is important for all.
When Should You Get a Doctor to Check Heart Symptoms?
Never dismiss warning signals, however slight. You need to see a doctor if you have:
Chest pain, even if it disappears
Shortness of breath when walking or going up stairs
Irregular heartbeats or frequent palpitations
Dizziness, fainting, or weakness for no apparent reason
Leg or ankle swelling
A significant family history of heart disease
Early detection and treatment will ward off emergencies. A standard heart health checkup can detect issues before they become dire.
Conclusion
A healthy heart is key to a healthy life. Cardiac emergencies are serious, but they are not always sudden. They build up over time—and so does the power to prevent them.

You don't have to make sweeping changes overnight. Begin small—walk a little, eat a little healthier, check your blood pressure, and speak with your doctor. Learn CPR and urge your family to learn CPR as well.

Above all, listen to your body. Chest discomfort, lightheadedness, or unexplained fatigue are not symptoms to be dismissed.

Guard your heart today so it can protect you for years to come.