Heart Attack vs Cardiac Arrest: Why Knowing the Difference Matters
When it comes to heart health, two terms are often used interchangeably: heart attack and cardiac arrest. While they may sound similar, they describe very different events. In fact, a Cleveland Clinic survey found that 87% of Americans mistakenly believed that sudden cardiac arrest is the same as a heart attack (Cleveland Clinic survey, 2018). Understanding the difference is not only empowering, it can help you feel more confident when making decisions about your wellbeing.
What Is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack is primarily a circulation problem. It happens when blood flow to part of the heart muscle becomes blocked, often due to a build up of plaque in the arteries. This blockage prevents oxygen rich blood from reaching a section of the heart. The longer the flow is restricted, the more damage can occur to the heart muscle.
Importantly, during a heart attack the heart usually continues to beat, even though it is under strain. Symptoms can vary from chest discomfort to shortness of breath or pain in other parts of the body. Because symptoms may differ for each individual, it is important to understand that not all heart attacks look the same.
What Is Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest is an electrical problem. It occurs when the heart’s natural rhythm becomes disrupted and the heart suddenly stops beating. When this happens, blood is no longer pumped around the body. Unless action is taken immediately, cardiac arrest can be fatal within minutes.
Unlike a heart attack, cardiac arrest often happens without warning. A person may collapse suddenly, lose consciousness, and stop breathing. Quick emergency response, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), is critical in these situations.
Key Differences Between Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest
While both events are serious medical emergencies, the underlying causes and effects are different:
- Heart Attack: A blockage prevents blood flow to the heart muscle (circulation problem).
- Cardiac Arrest: An electrical malfunction causes the heart to stop beating (electrical problem).
It is also possible for one to lead to the other. For example, a severe heart attack may trigger cardiac arrest, but they are not the same condition.
Why Awareness Matters
Confusing the two can delay getting the right kind of help in an emergency. Knowing the difference is not about medical training, it is about awareness. Recognising that a heart attack involves blocked blood flow and that cardiac arrest is a sudden stoppage of the heartbeat can help you understand why quick and appropriate action is essential.
Heart Health Awareness After 40
For men over 40, heart health awareness becomes increasingly important. Lifestyle habits, wellness routines, and informed decision making all contribute to long term wellbeing. By understanding the basics, men can feel more confident and prepared to take charge of their health journey.
For women over 40, heart health deserves equal attention. Symptoms of heart issues can sometimes present differently in women, which makes awareness and education especially valuable. Consistent wellness practices and proactive choices help women support their long term wellbeing and feel empowered in their health journey.
Everyday Wellness and Prevention
While medical professionals are the only ones who can diagnose or treat these conditions, everyday wellness practices can still play a role in overall wellbeing. Consistency in habits such as balanced nutrition, movement, stress management, and restorative routines like quality sleep all support a healthier lifestyle.
Heart attack and cardiac arrest are different emergencies with different causes and consequences. A heart attack is a problem of blood flow, while cardiac arrest is a problem of heart rhythm. Both require immediate medical attention, but awareness of their differences can make information clearer and support better understanding of overall heart health.
At AtheroCare, our focus is on sharing knowledge that empowers people to make informed choices in their wellness journey. Education is a powerful tool and sometimes, understanding the basics can make all the difference.
