Recognizing a Heart Emergency – How to Tell if It’s a Heart Attack or Cardiac Arrest
When it comes to heart emergencies, two of the most serious conditions are cardiac arrest and heart attack.
While they are often used interchangeably, they are not the same. Understanding the differences and warning signs can help you act quickly in an emergency and potentially save a life.
What Is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually due to plaque buildup in the coronary arteries.
A heart attack is a circulatory problem that requires urgent medical attention but does not necessarily mean the heart has stopped beating. However, it’s still life-threatening because, without enough oxygen, the heart muscle begins to die.
What Is Cardiac Arrest?
A cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops beating due to an electrical malfunction. This prevents the heart from pumping blood into vital organs, including the brain and lungs.
Without immediate treatment, cardiac arrest is fatal within minutes.
Comparing Symptoms: Cardiac Arrest vs. Heart Attack
To better understand how these conditions differ, let’s take a look at their symptoms:
|
SYMPTOM |
HEART ATTACK |
CARDIAC ARREST |
|
Chest pain or discomfort |
Common, it may spread to arms, jaw, or back. |
Possible but not always present. |
|
Shortness of breath |
Common, even without chest pain. |
It is possible, but sudden loss of breathing is more typical. |
|
Cold sweat |
May occur. |
Not common. |
|
Dizziness or lightheadedness |
Possible. |
Common before collapsing. |
|
Nausea or vomiting |
Possible. |
Rare. |
|
Sudden collapse |
Uncommon. |
Very common. |
|
Loss of consciousness |
Rare in the early stages. |
Immediate. |
|
No pulse |
No, the heart is still beating. |
Yes, the heart stops beating. |
When to Go to the ER
Both cardiac arrest and heart attacks are life-threatening, but their warning signs may differ.
Here’s what you should know:
Signs You Should Seek Emergency Help Immediately:
For a Heart Attack:
- Persistent or intense chest pain lasting more than a few minutes
- Pain radiating to the arms, jaw, back, or neck
- Shortness of breath, nausea, cold sweat, or lightheadedness
- Symptoms that come and go or worsen over time
For Cardiac Arrest:
- Collapse
- No breathing or gasping for air
- Unresponsiveness
- No detectable pulse
If you suspect cardiac arrest, first call 911 immediately and then begin CPR while waiting for emergency responders. Administering CPR while help arrives can double or even triple the patient’s chance of survival.
If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, use it immediately.
Why Choose Prestige ER?
Our expert medical team at Prestige ER is trained and equipped to handle cardiac emergencies swiftly and efficiently. We provide:
- 24/7 emergency care at our Mesquite and Plano locations.
- Advanced cardiac diagnostics, including EKGs, CT scans, and blood tests.
- State-of-the-art cardiac monitoring and treatment.
- A compassionate, skilled team ready to assist you and your loved ones.
Recognizing the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest can save a life.
If you or someone you love experiences symptoms, don’t wait—seek help immediately.
When every second counts, you can count on Prestige ER to provide life-saving care.
Know Where to Go in the Event of an Emergency
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