The Difference Between a Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

When we think about any heart-related emergency then the two very common terms are heart attack and cardiac arrest. Both these terms are used interchangeably. However these two conditions are different because of their symptoms, causes and treatments. You must know the difference between the two conditions- not only for general awareness but also to take quick decision in case of any emergency.

What is heart attack?

Scientifically this term is called as myocardial infarction. It happens due to block of blood flow in a part of heart muscle. This condition arrives due to blocked coronary artery, often happens due to plaque deposition. Here plaque is a combination of cholesterol, fat and other substances. In case of blood flow cut off, the blocked part of heart doesn’t get enough oxygen and the muscles eventually die.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Usually the symptoms will vary as per the patients’ condition, but some of the common signs include:

• Discomfort or chest pain. Patient will feel pressure or fullness.
• Pain that spreads to arm, back, neck and jaw.
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Cold sweats
• Lightheadedness 

In many patients especially women the symptoms may be as subtle as fatigue or indigestion.

What to Do During a Heart Attack

In case of heart attack you must contact emergency services quickly. The sooner patient receives treatment; the better will be his condition and chance of survival and recovery. If the patient is not allergic to aspirin, he can chew it. Aspirin is a blood thinner and can improve blood circulation till the doctor arrives.

What Is Cardiac Arrest?

In cardiac arrest, the heart suddenly stops to function. It happens due to any problem in heart’s electrical system, causing it to stop beating. In such situation, blood flow stops to the brain and other body parts. A person with cardiac arrest may die within minutes.

Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest comes without any warning sign. The person may:

• Collapse suddenly
• Become unconscious
• No pulse
• Stop breathing or gasp irregularly

Cardiac arrest is a more severe condition then heart attack that may cause immediate loss of responsiveness, making it a true emergency condition.

What to Do During Cardiac Arrest

In such condition immediate CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is required along with AED (automated external defibrillator) if available. Chest compression may help in blood circulation to some extent till the emergency medical arrive. Survival rate decreases by 7-10% after every minute that passes without defibrillation. Thus quick action is required to save the patient’s life.

Heart attack vs cardiac arrest: Major differences at a glance

Can One Lead to the Other?

Yes. Heart attack may lead to electrical disturbances which may convert into cardiac arrest in future. In fact, heart attack is the common cause of cardiac arrest. But, heart attack is not always responsible for cardiac arrest- some may be caused due to abnormal heart rhythms, heart failure or other heart diseases.  

Conclusion

Both the heart attack and cardiac arrest need immediate medical treatment, but fundamentally both are different conditions. A heart attack is related to blood circulation issue in which blood is unable to reach heart. While cardiac arrest is an electrical issue- the heart stops to beat. Understanding the symptoms of both the conditions can help you to save the life. 

You can contact MS medical to get treatment from highly skilled Cardiologist in Mumbai.