Difference Between Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

What is the difference between Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest?

1. Heart Attack A blood vessel supplying the heart gets blocked, causing chest pain, shortness of breath, and sweating. However, the heart continues to beat.

2. Cardiac Arrest The heart suddenly stops beating, breathing stops, and the patient loses consciousness.

In a Heart Attack, there is some time to act, but in Cardiac Arrest, treatment is needed within seconds or death is likely.

Common causes of Cardiac Arrest in young people include:

1. Genetic heart problems – congenital defects or sudden rhythm disturbances 2. Intense exercise or sports stress – excessive strain when the body is unprepared 3. Unknown heart disease – undiagnosed hidden problems 4. Use of drugs or steroids – sudden pressure on the heart 5. Infections like viral myocarditis 6. Mental stress and sleep deprivation – continuous stress and lack of sleep

Young age is not a guarantee of safety – regular check-ups, awareness, and caution are essential!

Dr Ravindra L Kulkarni Just For Hearts