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Differentiation between a Heart Attack and a Sudden Cardiac Arrest

Dr Ranjit Jagtap

Although the names are commonly used interchangeably, sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is not the same as a heart attack. While both cardiac disorders are life-threatening, knowing the differences could save your life. Dr. Ranjit Jagtap here clarifies the situation by telling the difference between a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest.

It is a common misconception in people that a heart attack and cardiac arrest are the same thing. This is not the case, however. To understand the difference between a heart attack and a cardiac arrest, you must first comprehend what occurs during each of these events.

Sudden cardiac arrest is an “electrical” problem, while a heart attack is a “circulation” problem.

Consider your home: It requires plumbing and electricity to function properly, and it is susceptible to both plumbing and electrical issues. 

SCA is an electrical (heart rhythm) problem, whereas heart attacks are predominantly a plumbing (blood flow) problem. Heart attacks, on the other hand, might cause complications that lead to cardiac arrest.

Heart attack: a plumbing problem

Arteries are the blood vessels that carry blood to your heart from all parts of the body. Plaques obstruct the arteries of the heart. This makes blood flow around the plaque more difficult.

Consider a slow-draining sink: water does not flow freely when the pipe becomes clogged with hair or debris. When it comes to your heart, this problem can be life-threatening: A heart attack occurs when not enough oxygenated blood reaches the heart muscle, causing the muscular tissue to perish.

Cardiac arrest: an electrical problem

The heart has an electrical conduction system built in that keeps it beating at a constant rate. Problems with the electrical system might be caused by underlying illnesses such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or past heart attacks. A dangerously fast and unpredictable cardiac rhythm could result from the defect (arrhythmia).

Cardiac arrest is a common occurrence among the elderly. Young persons with inherited cardiac problems, on the other hand, are at risk. Consult your doctor about preventive care if you have a cardiac issue.

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Symptoms of a heart attack

People who are having a heart attack are usually aware about their condition. Circulation is reduced, blood still reaches important organs and the brain, allowing the person to remain conscious can lead to a heart attack. If you suffer a heart attack, you may notice the following symptoms over the course of hours, days, or weeks: Pain in the chest, breathing problems, stomach ache, sweating, and weakness.

Symptoms of a sudden cardiac arrest

If there is no blood flow to the brain, then while experiencing cardiac arrest a person generally lose consciousness within minutes. More than half of those who have SCA have no signs or symptoms. Other people may have: Face discoloration in a blue hue, breathing problems, pain in the chest, and dizziness as the heart beats faster.

Importance of knowing the difference between a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest?

It is often said that “Time is tissue.” This implies that if you wait longer for help then the more damage to your heart tissue may occur. Knowing the difference can help you make vital decisions if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms.

According to Dr Ranjit jagtap News, you’re also more likely to develop SCA if you’ve had a past heart attack or have heart disease. Following a heart attack, the risk of SCA is highest for the first three months, then steadily diminishes. Your doctor can assist you in determining what preventive measures you should take. Visit Dr. Ranjit Jagtap Clinic to get the best treatment and care.


Dr Ranjit Jagtap

Dr. Ranjit Jagtap,a highly professional expert in Cardiothoracic Surgery,founded Ram Mangal Heart Foundation (P)Limited in 2014 with the mission of serving every sector of humanity

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