What is the Difference Between Cardiac Arrest and Heart Attack?

The main difference between cardiac arrest and a heart attack lies in their underlying causes and the effects on the heart.

Cardiac Arrest:

• Occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating, often due to an electrical malfunction in the heart.
• Results in an immediate loss of blood circulation to the brain and other vital organs.
• Requires immediate response, such as CPR and the use of an AED, to restart the heart.
• Cardiac arrest is not always preceded by pre-existing heart conditions but can be triggered by various factors, including coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, valvular heart disease, congenital heart disease, and electrical problems in the heart.

Heart Attack:

• Occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often by a blood clot or a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
• Results in the heart muscle being robbed of its vital blood supply and oxygen, causing the muscle to die if untreated.
• The heart usually continues to beat during a heart attack, but the blood supply to the heart is compromised.
• Heart attacks are often caused by pre-existing heart conditions and can lead to sudden cardiac arrest if not treated promptly.

In summary, a heart attack is a circulation problem resulting from a blocked artery, while cardiac arrest is an electrical problem caused by a disruption in the heart's rhythm. Both are serious medical emergencies that require immediate attention, but they differ in their causes and effects on the heart.

Comparative Table: Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Attack

Here is a comparison table summarizing the differences between cardiac arrest and heart attack:

Both heart attack and cardiac arrest are life-threatening medical emergencies. Recognizing the symptoms of each and seeking immediate medical help can save a life.