Which is More Dangerous: Heart Attack or Cardiac Arrest?

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Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Attack: Breaking Down the Distinctions

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Regarding heart health emergencies, two terms are often confused: cardiac arrest vs heart attack. Both are serious conditions, but they are not the same. Understanding the difference between heart attack and cardiac arrest can help increase awareness, getting immediate care, and even saving lives. At Jinkushal Hospital, our expert Best Cardiologist in Thane are here to provide you with the right care and guidance for cardiovascular well-being.

What is Cardiac Arrest and Heart Attack?

A heart attack occurs when the heart's arteries become clogged due to a plaque buildup. The heart continues beating, but the affected part of the muscle starts to die if not treated quickly.

A heart stoppage, on the other hand, happens when the cardiac function ceases due to an irregular heartbeat. This leads to an sudden blackout and pulse absence, requiring emergency intervention.

While a coronary incident can lead to a complete shutdown, they are different medical emergencies.

Difference Between Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

Understanding the contrast between these heart issues is crucial for identifying the warning signs and acting swiftly. Below is a comparison:

| Feature | Myocardial Infarction | Heart Malfunction |

|-------------------|----------------|-----------------|

| Cause | Coronary blockage | Abnormal heart signals |

| Indicators | Chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea | Sudden collapse, no pulse, no breathing |

| Heart Function | Partially functional | Stops completely |

| Immediate Actions | Call an ambulance, take aspirin, stay calm | Perform CPR, use a defibrillator |

How to Recognize a Heart Attack

A coronary blockage can develop unexpectedly or over hours, with symptoms such as:

- Tightness in the chest

- Shortness of breath