Sudden Cardiac Arrest vs. Heart Attack: Know the Signs, Save a Life

Heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrests are both life-threatening medical emergencies, but they are distinct conditions requiring different responses. Being able to recognize and act appropriately during these situations can make a crucial difference in saving a person’s life. Here’s what you should know:

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA)

• SCA is characterized by a sudden and unexpected cessation of the heart’s electrical activity, resulting in the heart stopping.
• During SCA, you won’t be able to detect a pulse, and the person may lose consciousness and stop breathing.
• Immediate action is crucial. Perform hands-only CPR to improve the chances of survival, and if available, use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for the best chance of survival until medical professionals arrive.

Heart Attack

• A heart attack occurs when there is a blockage in one of the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle, typically due to coronary artery disease.
• Symptoms of a heart attack may include radiating chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, and feeling faint.
• If you or someone around you experiences symptoms of a heart attack in India, call 112 immediately and follow the dispatcher’s instructions.

Severity

• Sudden cardiac arrest is typically more severe and can result in death within minutes if not treated promptly.
• A heart attack is less immediate but can still be very dangerous if left untreated. Both conditions must be addressed quickly to reduce the risk of complications or death.

Causes

• Sudden cardiac arrest is primarily caused by issues in the heart’s electrical system and may not show detectable warning signs before the event. Causes include abnormal heart rhythms, electrolyte imbalances, diseases weakening the heart muscle, and more.
• A heart attack is usually caused by a blockage in the arteries supplying blood to the heart muscle, often due to coronary artery disease. Other causes can include inflammation or infection in the heart muscle, congenital heart defects, or lifestyle factors.

Warning Signs

Specific to Cardiac Arrest

1. Sudden loss of consciousness
2. Lack of pulse
3. No breathing
4. Sudden collapse
5. Shortness of breath
6. Weakness
7. Heart palpitations (fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart)

Specific to a Heart Attack

1. Radiating chest pain
2. Feeling faint
3. Jaw or neck discomfort
4. Shortness of breath
5. Sweating
6. Unusual or unexplained tiredness
7. Nausea or vomiting

What to Do in Case of Either Medical Emergency

• For a heart attack, call 112 immediately, stay calm, and provide detailed information to the dispatcher. Do not attempt to drive yourself or wait for symptoms to subside. If possible, take an aspirin if advised by medical professionals.
• For cardiac arrest, begin CPR immediately, and if available, use an AED as soon as possible. Call 112 or have someone call for you. Continue CPR until professional emergency medical services arrive.

Learn Compression-Only CPR

1. Checking for responsiveness and normal breathing.
2. Calling 112.
3. Performing high-quality chest compressions until help arrives.

Understanding the differences between sudden cardiac arrest and a heart attack and knowing how to respond in each case can help save lives, as both are serious medical emergencies that require immediate attention.