Introduction
Many people use the terms heart attack and cardiac arrest interchangeably, but medically they are very different conditions. Understanding the difference can help save lives and reduce panic during emergencies. If you want reliable guidance from the best cardiologist in Kolkata, knowing these basics is the first step toward heart health awareness.
What Is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack, medically known as myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked. This blockage is usually caused by plaque buildup in the coronary arteries. When the blood supply is cut off, the heart muscle does not get enough oxygen and starts getting damaged.
Common symptoms of a heart attack include:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Pain spreading to the left arm, jaw, neck, or back
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweats
- Nausea or dizziness
A heart attack usually happens when a person is awake and conscious. Timely medical treatment can limit damage and save the heart muscle.
What Is Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest is a sudden and life-threatening condition where the heart unexpectedly stops beating. It occurs due to an electrical malfunction in the heart, causing an irregular rhythm known as arrhythmia. When the heart stops pumping blood, oxygen supply to the brain and body stops immediately.
Signs of cardiac arrest include:
- Sudden collapse
- Loss of consciousness
- No pulse
- No breathing
Cardiac arrest is an emergency that requires immediate CPR and defibrillation. Without quick action, it can be fatal within minutes.
Can a Heart Attack Cause Cardiac Arrest?
Yes. A severe heart attack can damage the heart’s electrical system and trigger cardiac arrest. However, not all cardiac arrests are caused by heart attacks. Some happen due to heart rhythm disorders, genetic conditions, or severe electrolyte imbalance.
What Should You Do in an Emergency?
- For heart attack symptoms: Call emergency services immediately and seek hospital care.
- For cardiac arrest: Start CPR right away and use an AED if available.
Quick response makes a huge difference in survival.
Prevention Is the Key
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of both conditions. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, managing blood pressure and diabetes, quitting smoking, and regular heart check-ups.
Consulting the best cardiologist in Kolkata can help you assess your risk, manage existing conditions, and take preventive steps for long-term heart health.
Conclusion
While both heart attack and cardiac arrest are serious medical emergencies, they are not the same. A heart attack is caused by blocked arteries, whereas cardiac arrest is due to a sudden failure of the heart’s electrical system. Knowing the difference helps in acting fast and saving lives. For accurate diagnosis, timely treatment, and preventive care, guidance from the best cardiologist in Kolkata plays a crucial role in protecting your heart and your life.