The human body cannot survive for an extended period without the heart pumping blood. The heart is a vital organ responsible for pumping oxygenated blood throughout the body, delivering essential nutrients and removing waste products. When the heart stops pumping, the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues is cut off, and waste products cannot be removed. This quickly leads to cell damage and death.
The exact time frame before irreversible damage occurs varies depending on several factors, including the person's overall health, body temperature, and the specific circumstances surrounding the cardiac arrest. However, in general, irreversible brain damage can begin to occur within just a few minutes after the heart stops beating.
Immediate medical intervention is crucial in case of cardiac arrest. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) can help maintain blood flow to vital organs and improve the chances of survival. Promptly restoring a normal heart rhythm is essential to prevent severe damage or death.
If you encounter a situation where someone is experiencing cardiac arrest, call emergency services immediately and initiate CPR if you are trained to do so. Time is of the essence in these situations, and every minute counts for a person's survival and well-being.