Advertisement
question

What are the causes of cardiac arrest in children and infants?

American Red Cross
American Red Cross
answer
It is rare for a child or an infant to initially suffer a cardiac emergency. Usually, a child or an infant has a respiratory emergency first and then a cardiac emergency develops.

Causes of cardiac arrest in children and infants include:
  • Airway and breathing problems.
  • Traumatic injury or an accident (e.g., motor-vehicle collision, drowning, electrocution or poisoning).
  • A hard blow to the chest.
  • Congenital heart disease.
  • Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Continue Learning about Heart Disease

Can you prevent sudden cardiac arrest?
Can you prevent sudden cardiac arrest?
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is like a power outage in your heart. If left untreated, sudden cardiac death can occur within minutes. But can it be avoi...
Read More
Tips for avoiding the flu when you have heart disease
Tips for avoiding the flu when you have heart disease
Commonly referred to as “the flu,” influenza is a respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. Common symptoms include fever, chills, muscle ach...
Read More
Women too often missing from heart disease research
Women too often missing from heart disease research
Every 80 seconds, a woman dies from cardiovascular disease. In fact, it's the top killer of women around the world, claiming more lives than all forms...
Read More
Protect your heart with a flu shot (plus 3 other vaccines)
Protect your heart with a flu shot (plus 3 other vaccines)
Although influenza infections occur year-round, infections tend to spike during certain months, which are known as “flu season.” In the United States,...
Read More

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.