Hulk Hogan faced his final challenge not in a wrestling ring, but against cardiac arrest, a leading cause of death in America.
Reports emerged Thursday morning indicating that the iconic wrestler, born Terry Jean Borea, died after struggling with health issues for weeks.
“He had been experiencing shortness of breath, fatigue, and weight gain, and his health deteriorated at his home in Clearwater, Florida,” said a source.
At 71, Hogan, who built a formidable wrestling legacy, ultimately succumbed to an opponent that even he couldn’t overcome.
Worldwide, cardiac arrest claims more lives than a combination of several serious health issues, including various cancers and accidents, according to the American Heart Association.
In the U.S. alone, cardiac arrest takes over 436,000 lives each year, which marks it as one of the most significant health risks in the country.
Here’s a closer look at this critical medical condition and how to respond.
What is cardiac arrest?
This severe medical emergency occurs when the heart unexpectedly stops functioning properly, preventing blood from being pumped. Oxygen no longer reaches the brain and vital organs, leading to quick deterioration. If immediate help isn’t provided, death is highly likely.
It’s important to note, however, that cardiac arrest differs from a heart attack.
While heart attacks are caused by circulation issues due to blocked arteries, cardiac arrest arises from electrical disturbances that disrupt heart rhythms.
Who is at risk of cardiac arrest?
The primary trigger for sudden cardiac arrest is an irregular heart rhythm known as ventricular fibrillation, which stops effective blood pumping.
Certain heart conditions, like coronary artery disease or a history of heart issues, elevate the risk, but cardiac arrest can occur even in individuals without known heart problems.
Several other factors that may increase the risk include:
- Smoking or excessive alcohol/drug use
- High blood pressure or cholesterol
- Low levels of potassium or magnesium
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Sleep apnea
- Chronic kidney disease
- Inactive lifestyle
- Family history of heart disease or cardiac arrest
The risk tends to rise with age, but even young individuals can be affected; sudden cardiac arrest occurs approximately once every 70 schools annually, often impacting young athletes.
While men generally face a higher risk, women’s risk goes up post-menopause.
Warning signs to watch out for
Common symptoms of cardiac arrest can include sudden loss of consciousness, which results from the brain not receiving oxygen, as well as labored or absent breathing.
Those experiencing cardiac arrest might exhibit a weak pulse, or none at all.
Other potential warning signs leading up to cardiac arrest involve unusual heart sensations like chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, rapid heartbeat, or palpitations.
However, it’s crucial to understand that sometimes there are no detectable warnings. Being prepared could mean the difference between life and death.
What should I do if someone has cardiac arrest?
If you suspect someone is experiencing cardiac arrest, it’s critical to act quickly.
First, gently shake the person’s shoulders and check for responsiveness. Assess if they’re breathing normally.
If someone is nearby, ask them to call 911 and find an automated external defibrillator (AED). If alone, make the emergency call yourself.
Begin CPR immediately for children, and quickly seek out an AED for adults, as time is of the essence.
For CPR, lay the person flat on a hard surface, tilt their head back to open the airway, and check for breathing. If absent, begin chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute, pressing down about two inches deep for adults.
As soon as an AED is available, follow the prompts. Keep alternating between CPR and using the AED until help arrives or the person regains consciousness.
Without any intervention, survival odds decrease significantly within minutes after cardiac arrest. Less than half of those affected receive timely assistance.
Research shows that learning CPR and using AEDs can significantly improve survival rates.
Experts are encouraging everyone to take a CPR course and refresh their skills every two to three years.
“It can save the lives of loved ones or even strangers,” said a medical professional, highlighting that many CPR classes also cover first aid and AED usage.
