Heart Attack or Cardiac Arrest? Your Action Matters! Save a Life!

When it comes to heart-related emergencies, it's crucial to understand the differences between a heart attack and cardiac arrest. These two conditions have distinct causes, symptoms, and require different immediate actions. Knowing the signs and symptoms of each can mean the difference between life and death.

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack is a circulation issue that occurs when one or more of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle, become blocked. This blockage restricts blood flow to the heart, and if it is not cleared quickly, the heart muscle will start to die. During a heart attack, the heart continues to beat, and the person may remain conscious as the symptoms slowly develop.

Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack:

• Severe discomfort or pain in the upper body, including the shoulders, arm, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea or vomiting
• Cold sweats
• Dizziness

What is Cardiac Arrest?

Cardiac arrest, on the other hand, is an electrical issue. It occurs when there is a sudden loss of heart function, and the heart stops beating. This is caused by an electrical malfunction in the heart, leading to an irregular heart rhythm and poor blood circulation to vital organs. Within seconds, the person becomes unresponsive and stops breathing. Without immediate CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), death can occur quickly.

Signs and Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest:

• Sudden unresponsiveness
• Unusual breathing

Action to Take

When faced with a heart-related emergency, the actions you take can make all the difference. Here's what you should do:

For a Heart Attack:

• Call an ambulance immediately
• If the person has any heart medication on hand, have them take it
• Monitor the person's response until the ambulance arrives

For Cardiac Arrest:

• Call the ambulance immediately
• Start CPR immediately
• Locate and use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) as soon as possible

Cardiac arrest, if left untreated, may lead to heart attack. Therefore, the key to survival in both cases is to act quickly. Recognising the signs and symptoms of a heart attack or cardiac arrest and taking the appropriate action can significantly improve the person's chances of survival.

In conclusion, awareness is your first line of defense against heart-related emergencies. Understanding the distinctions between heart attacks and cardiac arrests, along with recognizing their symptoms, empowers you to act swiftly in critical moments. With the right knowledge and a calm response, you might not only save a life but also set an example for others to do the same.

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