IS IT A HEART ATTACK OR CARDIAC ARREST? CLEARING UP THE CONFUSION
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Sony Sherpa, (MBBS) - October 01, 2024
A lot of terminologies and conditions can be perplexing when it comes to heart health. "Heart attack" and "cardiac arrest" are two definitions that are frequently misinterpreted. While they may sound similar, they are actually two different medical emergencies with different causes and treatments.
In this article, we will explore the difference between cardiac arrest and heart attack, their signs and symptoms, and what you can do in an emergency involving either.
Heart Attack vs Cardiac Arrest: The Difference
When examining the underlying causes and symptoms of each, as detailed below, it becomes clear how a heart attack differs from a cardiac arrest.
Heart Attack Definition
A blockage in one or more coronary arteries results in a heart attack, commonly referred to as a myocardial infarction. The heart muscle receives oxygen-rich blood from these arteries. When a blockage or reduction in blood supply occurs, the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen and begins to die.[1]
Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of a heart attack. This medical condition is caused by an accumulation of plaque in the arteries. A blood clot may form due to a rupture of this plaque, blocking the major artery supplying the heart.
Other causes of a heart attack include:
- Blood clots from other parts of the body
- Severe physical exertion
What is Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest, on the other hand, is a sudden and unexpected loss of heart function. This occurs when the heart has an electrical malfunction, causing an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). The malfunction can cause the heart to stop beating altogether, cutting off blood flow to the rest of the body.[2]
There are several factors that might lead to cardiac arrest, including:
- heart disease
- electrolyte imbalances
- trauma to the chest
In some cases, there may be no known cause.
Signs and Symptoms
While both cardiac arrest and heart attack involve interruptions of the heartbeat, they have different signs and symptoms.
Heart Attack Symptoms
The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain or discomfort. This pain may feel like pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the chest. It may also radiate to the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.[3]
Other symptoms may include:
- shortness of breath
- nausea or vomiting
- lightheadedness
- cold sweats
It is important to note that not everyone experiences chest pain during a heart attack. Women, in particular, may experience different symptoms, such as fatigue, dizziness, and indigestion.
Cardiac Arrest Signs
Unlike a heart attack, cardiac arrest often occurs without warning. The person may suddenly collapse, lose consciousness, and stop breathing. Other signs and symptoms may include gasping for air, no pulse, and loss of color in the skin.
Which Is More Dangerous: Heart Attack or Cardiac Arrest?
Both heart attacks and cardiac arrests are serious medical emergencies that require immediate attention. However, a cardiac arrest is often considered more dangerous because it can lead to sudden death if not treated immediately.
In a heart attack, the heart is still beating, and there is a chance for survival if medical attention is administered quickly. The longer treatment is delayed, the more damage the heart endures. Severe heart attacks increase the risk of cardiomyopathy and heart failure.
The chances of surviving a heart attack are good. Roughly 90-97% of people survive.[4]
In a cardiac arrest, the heart has stopped beating, and immediate intervention is needed to restart it. If left for longer than 5 minutes, cardiac arrest can lead to brain damage, and if left for longer than 8 minutes, cardiac arrest can be fatal.[5]
Survival rates for cardiac arrest are much lower. At cardiac arrest onset, the survival rate averages 67%, plummeting by approximately 5.5% per minute without appropriate intervention, such as CPR, defibrillation, or cardiac support.[6]
What to Do in an Emergency
The response towards heart attack and cardiac arrest also differ substantially. Here is what to do if someone suffers either a heart attack or cardiac arrest in your immediate vicinity:
Heart Attack
Call for an ambulance if you think you may be having a heart attack or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms. While waiting for emergency services to arrive, have the person sit down and rest. If they are not allergic, give them an aspirin to chew, as this can help prevent blood clots from getting bigger.
Cardiac Arrest
If someone is experiencing cardiac arrest, it is crucial to act quickly. Call an ambulance immediately and begin hands-only CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). This involves pushing hard and fast on the center of the chest until help arrives (see instructions below).
Successful CPR can substantially improve survival rates, allowing for a person to be kept live until emergency services arrive and stabilize the patient.
Make use of the automated external defibrillator (AED) as soon as one is available.
How to Perform Hands-Only CPR
In the event of a cardiac arrest, hands-only CPR can be a lifesaving technique. It involves pushing hard and fast on the center of the chest to keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs until help arrives.
To perform hands-only CPR, follow these steps:
- Call an ambulance or emergency medical services immediately.
- Place the person on their back on a firm surface.
- Kneel beside the person and place the heel of one hand on the center of their chest.
- Place your other hand on top of the first hand.
- Push hard and fast, at least 100-120 compressions per minute.
- Continue until help arrives or the person starts to move.
Prevention
While heart attacks and cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.
Preventing a Heart Attack
To prevent a heart attack, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This entails managing any underlying medical disorders, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, as well as consuming a balanced diet and exercising regularly. It is also crucial to avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Is Cardiac Arrest Preventable?
To prevent cardiac arrest, it is important to identify and treat any underlying heart conditions. This may include taking medication, undergoing surgery, or making lifestyle changes. It is also essential to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of a heart problem.
Conclusion
While heart attacks and cardiac arrest may sound similar, they are two distinct medical emergencies with different causes and treatments. Knowing the signs and symptoms of each and how to respond in an emergency can help save lives.
Remember, if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or cardiac arrest, call an ambulance immediately. With quick action and proper treatment, the chances of survival increase significantly.
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