"Is this normal?" after cardiac arrest or ECMO

Plain answers to the things survivors lie awake wondering about. Each page names its sources, says when to call 911, and ends with one reminder: talk to your care team.

• Brain fog and memory gaps

  Trouble focusing, finding words or remembering things.

  Read the page

• Chest twinges and soreness

  A twinge, an ache, a flutter, and how to tell what needs help.

  Read the page

• An ICD shock

  What a shock feels like and when it is an emergency.

  Read the page

• Sleep

  Waking at night, not falling asleep, nightmares.

  Read the page

• ECMO cannula scars

  How the skin heals where the tubes were, and the signs of a problem.

  Read the page

• Anxiety and PTSD

  Fear of it happening again, panic, nightmares, and where to find help.

  Read the page

• Fatigue

  Feeling worn out, weak or slow to recover.

  Read the page

• Emotions and identity

  Mixed feelings, feeling like a different person, and being the one who survived.

  Read the page

• Going back to work

  When, how, and what to ask first.

  Read the page

Need an answer right now? Open the When to call card.

General information, not medical advice. Talk to your care team.