What’s the Difference?
If you don’t have a background in medicine, it probably seems as though the words “heart attack” and “cardiac arrest” are used interchangeably. An image may form in your mind of someone with chest pain, pain in one of their arms, and difficulty breathing, who suddenly collapses.
We live in a media-centric society with a world of information and misinformation at our fingertips. It is important to note, however, that media does not always portray medical emergencies and interventions accurately. The sad truth is that most screen-writers don’t have a great wealth of medical knowledge. When we work to correct our own misunderstandings regarding this topic, we are working to prevent tragedy at a basic and achievable level.
What then are the differences between a heart attack and cardiac arrest?
What is a Heart Attack?
“About every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a heart attack”
-American Heart Association
A heart attack happens when blood flow to the heart is severely reduced or cut off. In almost every case, this occurs when plaque coats and narrows the coronary arteries. Plaque is a buildup of cholesterol, fat, and other substances, the presence of which warrants the diagnoses of atherosclerosis. If left untreated, the condition can result in plaque breaking off of coronary arteries to form a blood clot, which can then block the flow of blood to heart tissue, ultimately causing a heart attack.
If you are interested in learning more about atherosclerosis, the American Heart Association has an expert article here with more information.
What is Cardiac Arrest?
“More than 356,000 cardiac arrests occur outside a hospital in the U.S. each year”
-American Heart Association
Cardiac arrest is the term used to describe the sudden loss of heart function in a person – the electrical system of the heart beats incorrectly, or stops completely. If left uncorrected, cardiac arrest quickly leads to death or irreversible damage. A multitude of factors influence occurrences of cardiac arrest, including genetic dispositions, diseases, or injuries. Sudden cardiac arrest can occur with no warning. It is important to understand that a heart attack leads to cardiac arrest if left untreated, but is not the only cause of cardiac arrest.
To learn more about the various types of cardiac arrest, click here.
Symptoms: Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest
Heart Attack
- Chest discomfort usually in the center of the chest that lasts for a few minutes. It might go away before returning. It may also feel chest pain, fullness, or uncomfortable chest pressure
- Discomfort in other areas of the upper body such as tingling or shooting pain down either arm (the left arm is more prevalent), the back, stomach, neck, or in the jaw
- Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort. Be aware if it is out of place for your body and the current environment
- Weakness throughout your body, or feel lightheaded
- Other signs such as feeling nauseous or either light or profuse sweating. Be aware of what is normal for your body, and the current environment
Cardiac Arrest
- Sudden collapse with no explanation, with symptoms of a heart attack, or any prior history of heart problems
- No pulse when checking at the carotid artery
- No breathing observed or assessed
- Loss of consciousness for any duration should be noted
- Chest discomfort that feels tight, or if you experience pressure, as if someone is sitting on your chest
- Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort. Be aware if it is out of place for your body and the current environment
- Weakness throughout your body, or feel lightheaded
- Heart palpitations feel like fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart beats outside the range of normal for your body
What is My Role in Preventing Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest?
“In one year alone, 475,000 Americans die from a cardiac arrest event”
-American Heart Association
Medical emergencies such as heart attack and cardiac arrest can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time, but death does not have to be the outcome of such an event. Studies show that the sooner medical intervention begins, the more likely a person is to make a full recovery. It takes time for professional help to arrive; time that isn’t always available. Immediate intervention performed before emergency medical services (EMS) arrive can mean the difference between life and death. You can make all the difference.
So how do you do it? The answer is very simple: get appropriate medical training and stay current with it.
There are many agencies that regulate national standards for prehospital medical training. Here at MedCert Solutions, we are affiliated with the American Heart Association, Red Cross, and American Safety & Health Institute. We encourage you to find a reputable local training site where you can take basic medical classes designed for the public that certify you in CPR & AED skills and procedures. The only way to combat preventable death caused heart attacks and cardiac arrest is through information, training, and preparation. We invite you to join with us in building a safer and more prepared community by being CPR certified, and prepared to act any moment. As we strive to prevent unnecessary tragedy, we know your preparation and participation will make all the difference.
By Jaret Kehl, NREMT