Understanding the Difference Between a Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest
When it comes to heart-related emergencies, two terms are often confusing: heart attack and cardiac arrest. Although they may sound similar and are both medical emergencies, they vary in causes, symptoms, and treatments. Understanding the distinction can help you respond appropriately and potentially save a life.
What is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack (medically called myocardial infarction) occurs when the blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked, usually by a clot or plaque buildup in the coronary arteries. Without adequate oxygen, that part of the heart muscle begins to die.
Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack:
- Chest pain or pressure (often described as squeezing or tightness)
- Pain radiating to arms, back, jaw, or stomach
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lightheadedness or dizziness
- Fatigue, especially in women
Note: A heart attack can happen while the person is awake, alert, and even talking. Some symptoms can come and go for days before the actual heart attack occurs.
What is Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest is an electrical malfunction in the heart that causes it to stop beating suddenly. This halts blood flow to the brain and other vital organs, leading to sudden collapse and unconsciousness. Without immediate treatment, it can be fatal within minutes.
Signs of Cardiac Arrest:
- Sudden collapse
- No pulse
- No breathing
- Loss of consciousness
Unlike a heart attack, cardiac arrest strikes without warning and demands immediate CPR and defibrillation (AED) to restart the heart.
How Are They Related?
While they are in different conditions, a heart attack can sometimes trigger cardiac arrest, especially if the heart’s rhythm becomes severely abnormal due to the damage.
Key Differences at a Glance:
Feature | Heart Attack | Cardiac Arrest |
Cause | Blocked blood flow | Electrical malfunction |
Heartbeat | Still beating (although impaired) | Stops beating |
Symptoms | Chest pain, shortness of breath | Sudden collapse, no breathing |
Onset | Gradual or sudden | Immediate and unexpected |
Response | Medical attention, meds, procedures | CPR and AED are required immediately |
What to Do in an Emergency?
If someone is having a heart attack:
- Call 911 or emergency services immediately.
- Keep the person calm and seated.
- Loosen tight clothing.
- If advised, give aspirin (unless allergic or contraindicated).
If someone goes into cardiac arrest:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Start CPR right away, push hard and fast in the center of the chest.
- Use an AED if available.
- Continue until emergency responders arrive.
Prevention Tips for Both Conditions:
- Eat a heart-healthy diet.
- Exercise regularly.
- Avoid smoking.
- Manage conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
- Schedule regular heart screenings, especially if you have a family history of heart disease.
When to See a Cardiologist?
If you’ve experienced chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or have risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes, it’s essential to consult a cardiologist. At iCardiology, our team of experienced heart specialists offers advanced cardiac evaluations, diagnostics, and care tailored to your needs.
Book an appointment today at iCardiology and take the first step toward a healthy heart.