Heart Attack vs Cardiac Arrest: Signs, Symptoms & Response

When it comes to heart emergencies, many people confuse a heart attack with cardiac arrest. While they’re related and serious, they’re not the same—and recognizing the difference is crucial for knowing how to respond quickly and effectively.

What Is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack (also called myocardial infarction) happens when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked, usually by a blood clot. Without oxygen-rich blood, that section of the heart muscle begins to die.

Signs of a Heart Attack

• Chest pain or discomfort (pressure, squeezing, fullness) that lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes

• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach

• Shortness of breath

• Cold sweat

• Nausea or vomiting

• Lightheadedness or dizziness

• Anxiety or a sense of impending doom

  
  

The person may remain conscious and alert during a heart attack, though they might be in severe distress.

What Is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating effectively, causing blood flow to the brain and body to stop. It often follows a heart attack but can also result from other causes like arrhythmias, trauma, or electrocution.

Signs of Cardiac Arrest

• Sudden collapse or loss of consciousness

• No pulse or heartbeat

• Not breathing or only gasping (agonal breathing)

• Unresponsive and unresponsive to shaking or shouting

  
  

Cardiac arrest is an immediate life-threatening emergency.

How to Respond

For a Heart Attack:

• Call 911 immediately

• Have the person rest and stay calm

• Loosen tight clothing

• If not allergic and able, have them chew and swallow aspirin (unless contraindicated)

• Monitor their condition until help arrives

  
  

For Cardiac Arrest:

• Call 911 or have someone else do it immediately

• Start CPR right away with chest compressions (and rescue breaths if trained)

• Use an AED as soon as it’s available

• Continue CPR until EMS arrives or the person starts breathing

  
  

Conclusion 

Understanding the difference between heart attack and cardiac arrest helps you provide the right help at the right time. Heart attacks need rapid medical care; cardiac arrest requires immediate CPR and defibrillation.