Sudden cardiac arrest claims hundreds of thousands of lives in the U.S. each year. Globally, cardiac arrest is responsible for more deaths than colorectal cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, influenza, pneumonia, auto accidents, HIV, firearms and house fires combined.

As Dignity Health Northridge Hospital Medical Center recognizes National Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Awareness Month this October and World Restart a Heart Day on Oct. 16, Dignity Health is encouraging community members to know their heart health, recognize the signs of cardiac arrest and, most importantly, know what to do when every second counts. 

Immediate action by a bystander, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), can significantly improve a person’s chance of survival.

How to Recognize Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing the heart to stop beating effectively. It’s different from a heart attack, which occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked. A heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, but they are not the same condition.

Cardiac arrest can happen suddenly and without warning. The key signs are:

■ Sudden collapse or loss of responsiveness

■ No normal breathing or only gasping or abnormal breathing

■ No response when the person is spoken to or tapped

■ If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, bystanders should assume the person is experiencing cardiac arrest and act immediately.

“The most important thing people can do when they witness a cardiac arrest is act quickly,” said Dr. Sam Kalioundji, interventional cardiologist, Dignity Health Northridge Hospital Medical Center. “You don’t have to be a healthcare professional to make a difference. Call 911, start CPR and use an AED if one is available. Those first few minutes can be critical while emergency responders are on their way.”

If you witness someone suddenly collapse:

■ Call 911 immediately and follow the dispatcher’s instructions.

■ Push. Start hands-only CPR by pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest.

■ Shock. Get an AED and follow its voice and visual instructions. The device will determine if a shock is needed.

Knowing what to do before an emergency happens can make it easier to respond with confidence. Dignity Health encourages residents to consider taking a CPR course, learning where AEDs are located in the places they regularly visit and talking with family members about what to do if someone experiences cardiac arrest.

Know Your Heart Health

While sudden cardiac arrest can occur unexpectedly, some cases are associated with underlying heart conditions. Knowing your personal risk factors and discussing concerns with a health care provider can help identify potential heart problems.

Dignity Health recommends that community members:

■ Know your numbers: Talk with your health care provider about blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, which can provide important information about your cardiovascular health.

■ Pay attention to symptoms: Unexplained fainting, particularly during exercise, heart palpitations, chest discomfort or shortness of breath should be discussed with a health care provider.

■ Know your family history: A family history of sudden cardiac death or certain inherited heart conditions may warrant further discussion with a health care provider.

■ Practice heart-healthy habits: Regular physical activity, a balanced diet and avoiding tobacco can support cardiovascular health.

To learn more about heart health and ways to reduce your risk of heart disease, visit https://www.commonspirit.org/services-specialties/heart-care.