Distinguishing Between a Stroke and a Heart Attack... The Difference Between Life and Death

Distinguishing Between a Stroke and a Heart Attack

 Distinguishing Between a Stroke and a Heart Attack... The Difference Between Life and Death

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is cut off, which can lead to muscle damage. A cardiac arrest is more severe and involves the heart suddenly stopping beating, 

leading to rapid loss of consciousness and possible death. Immediate intervention, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), is crucial in cases of cardiac arrest to restore heart function and prevent irreversible damage, according to the Times of India.

Heart Attack

A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to part of the heart is cut off. The blockage—usually caused by a clot in one of the coronary arteries—means the heart muscle doesn't get the oxygen it needs. If not treated quickly, parts of the heart muscle can die.

Cardiac Arrest

A cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating completely. Blood flow is interrupted, cutting off the flow of oxygen to the brain or body. Within seconds, the person loses consciousness. If the heart is not restarted, death quickly follows.

A Harvard University report explains, "A heart attack is a mechanical problem, while a cardiac arrest is an electrical one. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart's electrical system malfunctions, causing it to beat rapidly and chaotically—or stop completely. With no blood flow to the brain, lungs, and other organs, the person gasps or stops breathing and becomes unconscious within seconds."

Causes of a Heart Attack

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the primary cause. Plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing them over time. A sudden blood clot can completely block an artery already narrowed by plaque. Coronary artery spasms can also impede blood flow, although this is less common. Risk factors include:

• High cholesterol

• Smoking

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Stress

• Poor diet and lack of exercise.

Causes of Cardiac Arrhythmias

Arrhythmias, especially the potentially fatal ventricular fibrillation (VFIb), are a cause of cardiac arrest. In VFI, the heart's electrical signals fire randomly, halting efficient pumping. Cardiac arrest can also be caused by:

• Heart attacks

• Severe arrhythmias

• Heart failure

• Trauma (such as electrocution or blunt force)

• Drug overdose

• Drowning

• Genetic conditions.

Symptoms of a heart attack

The symptoms of a heart attack are often gradual, sometimes subtle, and often misunderstood—especially in women. They include:

• Chest pain or pressure (which may feel like squeezing, fullness, or aching)

• Pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back

• Shortness of breath

• Cold sweat

• Nausea or vomiting

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

Note: Some people, particularly those with diabetes and women, may experience a so-called "silent" heart attack—where symptoms are so mild or unusual that they go completely unnoticed.

Symptoms of a cardiac arrest are often sudden and shocking. They include:

• Sudden collapse

• Loss of pulse

• Stopped breathing

• Loss of consciousness

• Before collapse: Some may experience chest pain, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat.

Important Advice

If someone is having a heart attack, they should immediately call emergency services. They should remain calm and loosen tight clothing. If the person is not allergic, taking a 325mg aspirin can help thin the blood. The key is that the faster blood flow is restored, the more heart muscle can be saved.

If someone is having a cardiac arrest, they should call emergency services immediately. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be initiated (chest compressions only if no one is trained in mouth-to-mouth breathing). An automated external defibrillator (AED) can be used if available. 

These devices are designed for the general public and provide voice guidance during the rescue. Ensure CPR continues until help arrives or the person regains consciousness. Every second counts as it saves brain cells from dying due to a lack of oxygen.

The importance of distinguishing between the two conditions

Misunderstanding the difference between a heart attack and a cardiac arrest can delay getting appropriate help. When it comes to the heart, every minute counts, as heart attacks are serious, and cardiac arrest is fatal unless treated immediately. Knowing the difference can make a difference, so first, gently correct information when someone confuses the two. Second, whenever possible, enroll in training courses for resuscitating and resuscitating heart attack and stroke victims.