When it comes to heart-related emergencies, many people confuse cardiac arrest with a heart attack. While both conditions are life-threatening, they are fundamentally different in their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Understanding these differences can help you respond effectively in an emergency.

What Is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest is a sudden and unexpected loss of heart function. It happens when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, causing the heart to stop beating properly.

Key Characteristics of Cardiac Arrest:

• Sudden loss of consciousness
• No pulse or heartbeat
• No breathing or abnormal gasping
• Requires immediate medical intervention (CPR and defibrillation)

Causes of Cardiac Arrest:

• Ventricular fibrillation (abnormal heart rhythm)
• Severe heart damage (from a previous heart attack)
• Drug overdose or poisoning
• Electrocution or severe trauma

What Is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, typically by a blood clot. Unlike cardiac arrest, the heart usually continues to beat, but without enough oxygen, heart muscle begins to die.

Key Characteristics of a Heart Attack:

• Chest pain or discomfort (may spread to arms, jaw, or back)
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea, dizziness, or cold sweats
• Can develop slowly or suddenly

Causes of a Heart Attack:

• Blocked coronary arteries (due to plaque buildup)
• Spasms of coronary arteries
• Severe stress or exertion (in rare cases)

How Are Cardiac Arrest and Heart Attack Different?

Feature	Cardiac Arrest	Heart Attack
Cause	Electrical malfunction	Blocked blood flow
Onset	Sudden and without warning	Gradual or sudden
Consciousness Loss	Immediate	Usually remains conscious
Treatment	CPR and defibrillation	Medication and artery-opening procedures

Why Understanding the Difference Matters

• Prompt action saves lives: Knowing the signs of cardiac arrest vs. a heart attack helps you respond quickly and appropriately.
• Accurate emergency response: Performing CPR is vital for cardiac arrest, while a heart attack requires emergency medical care to restore blood flow.

Recognizing Early Warning Signs

Identifying the early symptoms of cardiac arrest or a heart attack can be lifesaving. Here’s what to watch for:

Early Signs of Cardiac Arrest:

• Sudden collapse with no response
• Gasping or not breathing at all
• No detectable pulse
• Seizure-like activity (in some cases)

Early Signs of a Heart Attack:

• Persistent chest pain or pressure
• Pain radiating to the arms, back, neck, or jaw
• Shortness of breath, even at rest
• Cold sweats, nausea, or dizziness

What to Do in an Emergency

Taking quick action can make the difference between life and death. Follow these steps based on the situation:

If Someone Is Experiencing Cardiac Arrest:

1. Call emergency services immediately – Time is critical.
2. Start CPR – Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (100-120 compressions per minute).
3. Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) – If available, follow the device’s prompts.

If Someone Is Having a Heart Attack:

1. Call emergency services right away – Do not delay.
2. Help the person sit down and stay calm – Avoid physical exertion.
3. Give aspirin (if available) – This helps thin the blood and prevent further clotting.

Useful Resources and Further Reading

For more detailed information on cardiac arrest and heart attack, check out these trusted resources:

• American Heart Association: Cardiac Arrest
• Mayo Clinic: Heart Attack
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: Cardiac Arrest
• CPR Guidelines from the American Red Cross
• Cardiac Stock photos by Vecteezy

Stay informed and prepared—knowledge can save lives.