What are common causes of ventricular fibrillation?

• A. Heart disease, Myocardial Infarction, cocaine
• B. Hypertension, Diabetes, heart failure
• C. Pneumonia, Infection, chest trauma
• D. Electrolyte imbalance, Stroke, dehydration

Answer: (A)

Ventricular fibrillation is a life-threatening heart rhythm that results in the heart being unable to effectively pump blood, and the common causes include significant underlying cardiac issues. Heart disease is a primary risk factor for this arrhythmia, as conditions like coronary artery disease can lead to ischemic damage to heart tissue. Myocardial infarction, or heart attack, is particularly associated with ventricular fibrillation, as it can create areas of damaged myocardium that can trigger chaotic electrical activity. Additionally, the use of stimulants like cocaine can provoke dangerous arrhythmias, including ventricular fibrillation, due to its effects on the cardiovascular system, such as increased heart rate and potential disruption of normal electrical conduction.

In contrast, the other options provide causes that, while they may be related to heart health or overall well-being, do not directly lead to the severe electrical disturbances characteristic of ventricular fibrillation. For instance, hypertension and diabetes may contribute to heart disease but are not immediate triggers for fibrillation. Similarly, pneumonia and infection, while they can complicate cardiovascular health, are not common direct causes of this specific arrhythmia. Electrolyte imbalances may lead to other types of arrhythmias, but do not inherently correlate with ventricular fibrillation in the