Cardiac Arrest vs. Heart Attack vs. Heart Failure: What Sets Them Apart?

Heart disease is a leading cause of death in India, with more than 1.5 million deaths per year. Many people use the terms "heart attack," "heart failure," and "cardiac arrest" interchangeably, but each condition is distinct, and understanding the difference can help you respond appropriately in case of a cardiac emergency.

Heart Attack

A heart attack occurs when a blockage in the coronary arteries restricts blood flow to the heart. The heart muscle begins to die due to a lack of oxygen, and immediate medical attention is required to restore blood flow. The longer the blockage persists, the more heart muscle is lost, and the more severe the damage.

Symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain or discomfort that may radiate to the jaw, neck, shoulders, arms, or back; shortness of breath; lightheadedness; cold sweats; and nausea or vomiting. The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain, but not all heart attacks cause chest pain, and some people may experience symptoms other than chest pain. It's essential to seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a heart attack, as early treatment can prevent permanent damage to the heart muscle. Heart Failure

When the heart becomes incapable of efficiently pumping blood, it leads to a condition called heart failure. It is not a sudden event like a heart attack but a chronic condition that develops gradually over time. Heart failure can be caused by many factors, including coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, valve disease, and heart attack.

Symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath; fatigue; swelling of the legs, ankles, or feet; weight gain; coughing or wheezing; and increased urination at night. Treatment for heart failure may involve medications to help the heart pump more efficiently, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, and in severe cases, surgery or implantable devices such as pacemakers.

Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest refers to the sudden cessation of the heart's beating, and it is not identical to a heart attack, although a heart attack may cause cardiac arrest. In cardiac arrest, the heart's electrical system malfunctions, causing it to stop beating, and the person loses consciousness. Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency, and immediate intervention is required to restart the heart's rhythm. Untreated conditions can result in death.

Symptoms of cardiac arrest include sudden loss of consciousness, cessation of breathing, and the absence of a pulse. CPR and defibrillation with an automated external defibrillator (AED) are the primary treatments for cardiac arrest. Early intervention with CPR and defibrillation can significantly improve the chances of survival.

Prevention

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is considered the most effective measure to prevent heart disease. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption. People with a family history of heart disease or other risk factors should talk to their doctor about additional steps they can take to reduce their risk.

Conclusion

In summary, heart attack, heart failure, and cardiac arrest are three distinct conditions that can all have serious consequences. Understanding the difference between them and recognizing the symptoms of each can help you respond appropriately in an emergency. While early intervention can save lives, prevention is always the best course of action, and adopting a healthy lifestyle is the most effective way to reduce the risk of heart disease. If you experience symptoms of heart disease, seek medical attention promptly to receive the best possible care.

Aloha Clinics organizes patient education programs at their clinic and online regularly. To stay informed about such events, you can follow us on Facebook and Instagram social media handles.