Heart Attack vs Cardiac Arrest: Key Differences Explained

When it comes to medical emergencies involving the heart, heart attack and cardiac arrest are terms often used interchangeably. However, these two conditions are very different — both in how they occur and how they should be treated. Understanding the distinction between a heart attack and cardiac arrest can save lives.

This article explores their differences, symptoms, causes, treatments, and how to respond when someone is experiencing either event. We reference credible sources like WebMD, Healthline, MSN, and OnlyMyHealth, along with insights from cardiologists featured in media platforms such as India Today, Hindustan Times, TOI, and News18, ensuring this content reflects both expertise and trustworthiness in line with Google EEAT principles.

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack, medically known as myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a clot. This deprives heart muscles of oxygen, causing damage to the heart tissue.

Causes of a Heart Attack:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD)
• Buildup of plaque (atherosclerosis)
• Spasm in a coronary artery
• Rarely, sudden tear in the artery (dissection)

According to Healthline, coronary artery disease is the leading cause of heart attacks, and lifestyle factors like smoking, poor diet, and stress increase the risk.

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What is Cardiac Arrest?

Unlike a heart attack, cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops beating due to an electrical malfunction. This leads to an immediate cessation of blood flow to vital organs.

Causes of Cardiac Arrest:

• Ventricular fibrillation
• Severe arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
• Heart attack (yes, a heart attack can trigger cardiac arrest)
• Cardiomyopathy
• Sudden trauma or shock
• Congenital heart defects
• Drowning or electric shock

The American Heart Association emphasizes that cardiac arrest is a leading cause of sudden death and requires immediate intervention.

Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest: Key Differences

In simpler terms: A heart attack is a “circulation problem,” while cardiac arrest is an “electrical problem.”

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Symptoms to Watch Out For

🔴 Heart Attack Symptoms:

• Chest discomfort or tightness (lasting more than a few minutes)
• Pain radiating to the arm, back, jaw, or neck
• Shortness of breath
• Cold sweats
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness

WebMD and MSN highlight that symptoms may vary by gender. For example, women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, fatigue, or pain in the jaw/back without chest pain.

⚡ Cardiac Arrest Symptoms:

• Sudden collapse
• No pulse or breathing
• Unresponsiveness
• May have prior symptoms like palpitations or chest pain

A person in cardiac arrest may show no warning signs — it happens suddenly and is fatal if not treated immediately.

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Which Is More Dangerous: Heart Attack or Cardiac Arrest?

Both conditions are dangerous, but cardiac arrest is often more immediately life-threatening. It can cause death within minutes if not treated.

However, heart attacks are more common, and if untreated, can lead to heart failure or cardiac arrest. This is why early detection and management of heart attack symptoms are crucial.

According to India Today and News18, many deaths in India labeled as “heart attack deaths” are actually cardiac arrests due to lack of awareness and immediate care.

What to Do in an Emergency?

If You Suspect a Heart Attack:

• Call emergency services immediately.
• Have the person sit and rest.
• Give aspirin (unless contraindicated) to thin the blood.
• Keep the person calm until help arrives.

If You Witness a Cardiac Arrest:

• Call for emergency help.
• Start CPR immediately – push hard and fast in the center of the chest.
• Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if available.
• Continue CPR until professional help arrives or the person shows signs of life.

OnlyMyHealth notes that every minute without CPR reduces the survival rate by 10%.

Can You Survive a Cardiac Arrest Without CPR?

Survival without CPR is extremely rare. According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR can double or triple survival chances. Hence, it’s essential to educate yourself and others on CPR and AED usage.

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Prevention Tips for Heart Health

For Heart Attack:

• Quit smoking
• Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly
• Control blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
• Manage stress

For Cardiac Arrest:

• Get regular heart screenings
• Treat underlying conditions (e.g., arrhythmias, heart disease)
• Discuss with your doctor if you need an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)
• Avoid substance abuse

Hindustan Times and Live Mint have recently reported a rise in cardiac events among young adults due to sedentary lifestyle and stress, underlining the importance of preventive cardiology.

How Do Doctors Diagnose and Treat These Conditions?

Diagnosis of a Heart Attack:

• ECG (Electrocardiogram)
• Blood tests for cardiac enzymes
• Coronary angiography

Treatment:

• Medications (blood thinners, statins)
• Angioplasty or stenting
• Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG)

Diagnosis of Cardiac Arrest:

• Observation of symptoms and vital signs
• ECG or imaging after revival
• Analysis of possible underlying heart conditions

Treatment:

• CPR and defibrillation
• Hospital-based advanced cardiac life support (ACLS)
• Long-term: ICD implantation or medications

TOI and News18 articles often feature stories of patients who survived sudden cardiac arrest due to quick CPR and timely hospital intervention.

Common Myths Debunked

❌ “Heart attack and cardiac arrest are the same.”

No – one involves blood flow, the other electrical failure.
❌ “Only old people get cardiac arrest.”

Cardiac arrest can happen to young people, especially athletes or those with hidden heart conditions.
❌ “If you’re fit, you’re not at risk.”

Even fit individuals with undiagnosed issues can suffer a heart emergency.

Takeaway: Know the Signs, Act Fast, Save Lives

Understanding the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest can help you recognize warning signs early, respond quickly, and even save a life. While both are emergencies, they differ in symptoms, causes, and treatments.

Heart attack = blocked blood flow

Cardiac arrest = electrical shutdown

Whether you’re a concerned individual, caregiver, or healthcare professional, staying informed and trained in CPR and AED usage can make all the difference.