Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Attack

Know the Real Difference, Symptoms, Prevention and Treatment

In recent days many tragic incidents have been analysed on YouTube, WhatsApp and News Papers which have shocked the public.

Perfectly fit, young and healthy looking people suddenly collapsed while exercising in the gym, dancing at weddings, performing on stage or even during everyday activities. These sudden deaths have raised serious concerns among health professionals and families.

What’s even more alarming is that many of these deaths are not due to a Heart Attack but a far more silent and deadly condition called Cardiac Arrest. This medical emergency can happen without warning and often leaves no time for help.

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More attention is required

Being healthy on the outside does not recognizes that everything is fine and perfect inside the body.

Eventually , Regular health checkups, stress control and proper nutrition are important to keep the heart healthy.

Understanding the key differences between cardiac arrest and heart attack can save lives even a lot can be changed by recognizing the symptoms early and taking immediate action.

 

Let us understand both cardiac arrest and heart attack in depth

What is Cardiac Arrest?

According to Dr. Rajiv Marwa (Senior cardiologist at IGMC) – Cardiac Arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops pumping. It is often caused by an electrical problem in the heart which leads to a sudden halt in heartbeat and blood circulation.

In many cases cardiac arrest can occur after a heart attack but not always. The main danger lies in how quickly it happens — often giving no chance to reach a hospital.

Main Causes of Cardiac Arrest

• Electrical disturbances in the heart

• Ventricular fibrillation (irregular heart rhythm)

• Existing heart disease

• Drug overdose or electric shock

What is a Heart Attack?

Dr. Rajiv Marwa explains – A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to the heart is blocked. This blockage prevents oxygen from reaching the heart muscles which leads to severe damage or failure. The most common reason is clogged arteries.

Unlike cardiac arrest a heart attack may show early warning signs and can be treated if medical help is provided on time.

However, according to available hospital data from IGMC that 15% to 20% of heart attacks can be fatal in the very first instance.

Common Symptoms of a Heart Attack

• Pressure or pain in the chest

• Pain in the left arm, jaw or back

• Shortness of breath

• Cold sweat or dizziness

• Feeling of nausea or vomiting

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Cardiac Arrest: A greater risk to life

Cardiac arrest is one of the most dangerous health emergencies. If CPR – Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation or a defibrillator is not used within 5 minutes then the chances of survival drop below 10%.

That makes it far deadlier than a heart attack.

 

Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Attack | Fitness doesn’t guarantee life’s safety

As per the recent accidents, Many celebrities and athletes who looked extremely fit have lost their lives to cardiac arrest. Some of them were even exercising or performing when the incident happened. In several cases the use of body enhancing steroids, extreme gym routines or cosmetic surgeries were found to be contributing factors.

Recent deaths of public figures like Kaanta Laga girl Shefali Jariwala, Comedian Raju Srivastava, Best Actress Sridevi and Rising Actor Sidharth Shukla have highlighted how serious and unpredictable a heart attack can be.

Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Attack | Prevention and Treatment

Heart attacks can often be treated with following actions

• Angiography (to check blockages)

• Stenting (to open arteries)

• Heart medicines (prescribed by a doctor)

Cardiac arrest requires immediate action

• Start CPR without delay

• Use a defibrillator if available

• Call emergency services immediately

 

Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Attack | do’s and don’ts during emergencies

• In case of cardiac arrest: Start CPR right away and get emergency help.

• In case of heart attack symptoms: Keep the person calm and take to a hospital without delay.

 

Ways to keep the heart healthy

Making small changes in daily routine can reduce the risk of both heart attack and cardiac arrest, which include

• Avoid fried foods, high fat meals and excessive sweets

• Include fresh fruits, green vegetables and omega-3 rich foods in daily routine

• Drink enough water daily

• Avoid unprescribed steroids and supplements to enhance body

• Balance exercise – not too much and not too little

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