Submitted by Dr T on February 14, 2011 – 11:00am
I am sorry to hear about your father-in-law. His heart is not “normal”, even if it seems to be functioning well right now. First, his doctors need to determine what caused the arrest, probably a severe arrhythmia causing what is called sudden cardiac death:
https://www.cardiachealth.org/heart-information/palpitations
https://www.cardiachealth.org/heart-information/heart-arrhythmia
https://www.cardiachealth.org/heart-information/heart-arrhythmia/sudden
Likewise, it may take more testing to determine how severe his brain injury is. This is best evaluated by a neurologist, who is undoubtedly involved with his care. It may simply be too early to judge how much recovery is possible.
Hope this helps,
Dr T
https://www.cardiachealth.org/