The Hope for a Cure for Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest - a layman learning. By Mahesh Saladi, PECFO

Cardiac Arrest and Heart Attack: What's the Difference?

Cardiac arrest and heart attack are two serious medical conditions that can be fatal. However, there are major differences between the two.

Heart Attack

A heart attack occurs when the blood supply to a part of the heart is blocked, which can cause damage or death to heart tissue. This is usually caused by a blood clot, a build-up of plaque, or a spasm in the artery.

The symptoms of a heart attack can vary from person to person, but they may include:

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Nausea

Lightheadedness

Dizziness

Sweating

Anxiety

Fatigue

If you think you are having a heart attack, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Preliminary treatment can help to prevent acute damage to the heart muscle.

Cardiac Arrest

A cardiac arrest is when the heart suddenly stops beating. This can be caused by several factors, including a heart attack, a heart rhythm problem, or a medical condition such as a stroke.

The symptoms of cardiac arrest are sudden and dramatic, and may include:

Loss of consciousness

No pulse

No breathing

If someone is in cardiac arrest, they need CPR and defibrillation immediately. CPR can help to keep the blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs until medical help arrives.

Differences Between Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

The main difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest is that a heart attack is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment, while cardiac arrest is an even more urgent medical emergency that requires immediate CPR and defibrillation.

Treatment for Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

Treatment for a heart attack may include medication, surgery, or both. Treatment for cardiac arrest is immediate CPR and defibrillation.

Prognosis for Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

The prognosis for a heart attack depends on the severity of the damage to the heart muscle. The prognosis for cardiac arrest is much less favorable, and the survival rate is low.

Prevention of Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

There are several things that can be done to help prevent heart attack and cardiac arrest, including:

Maintaining a healthy weight

Eating a healthy diet

Exercising regularly

Not smoking

Drinking alcohol in moderation

Managing stress

Conclusion

Heart attack and cardiac arrest are serious medical conditions that can be fatal. However, there are significant differences between the two. If you think you or someone you know is experiencing either of these medical emergencies, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.