Written by: Thisandi Male Pathiranage
Edited by: Sofia Gagarin
Myth
Many individuals use the terms cardiac arrest and heart attack interchangeably. Cardiac arrest and heart attacks can be linked. For example, a heart attack can precede a sudden cardiac arrest. However, there are distinctions between these two events. The major difference is that cardiac arrest is a result of an electrical complication while a heart attack is due to a circulation issue.
Overview
Cardiac Arrest
Cardiac arrest often occurs without warning. The event is caused by electrical malfunctions that induce ventricular and atrial fibrillations. In both instances, ventricles are unable to effectively pump blood throughout the body due to arrhythmia, an irregular heartbeat. The circulation of blood may even cease completely as an individual loses consciousness and pulse, resulting in sudden death if treatment is not provided.
Heart Attack
Heart attack symptoms gradually appear and persist for hours, days, or weeks before the actual event. The event is also known as a myocardial infarction, which occurs when a blocked artery prevents the circulation of oxygen-rich blood. These blockages are often a consequence of plaque build-up or blood clots. Unlike cardiac arrest, heart attacks do not result in the heart ceasing to pump blood.
Symptoms
Cardiac Arrest
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Fatigue or weakness
Nausea
Heart palpitations
Immediate care and attention must be provided if an individual is experiencing chest pain, no pulse, difficulty breathing, or a loss of consciousness.
Heart Attack
Chest pain
Sweating
Nausea
Lightheadedness
Dizziness
Treatment
Cardiac Arrest
Immediate action is required if an individual is experiencing cardiac arrest. Emergency medical services must be notified, and an external defibrillator (AED) must be utilized as soon as possible. Furthermore, CPR must be conducted until professionals arrive.
Heart Attack
An emergency response number must be contacted in the event of a heart attack for emergency medical services to arrive on the scene right away. The individual must be transported to a hospital, while EMS provides treatment on the way.
Works Cited
Heart Attack and Sudden Cardiac Arrest Differences. www.heart.org. (n.d.). https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/about-heart-attacks/heart-attack-or-sudden-cardiac-arrest-how-are-they-different.
Macon, B. L. (2017, August 4). Cardiac Arrest: Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Treatment. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/cardiac-arrest.
Luo, E. K. (2020, May 28). Heart Attack. https://www.healthline.com/health/heart-attack.