When it comes to heart-related emergencies, two terms often cause confusion: heart attack and cardiac arrest. While both involve the heart and can be life-threatening, they are completely different conditions with distinct causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Knowing the difference between these two can help you take the right action in an emergency and even save a life.

Heart Attack vs Cardiac Arrest

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack (also known as a myocardial infarction) happens when a blocked artery prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching a section of the heart. This blockage is usually caused by plaque buildup in the arteries due to cholesterol, fat, and other substances.

When the blood supply is cut off, the heart muscle begins to suffer damage and die if not restored quickly. However, during a heart attack, the heart continues beating—it does not stop suddenly like in cardiac arrest.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Heart attack symptoms can develop slowly or suddenly. Some people experience mild symptoms, while others have intense pain. The most common signs include:

• Chest pain or discomfort – A feeling of pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the chest
• Pain radiating to other areas – Pain may spread to the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach
• Shortness of breath – Feeling unable to breathe properly, even while at rest
• Nausea, dizziness, or cold sweats – These symptoms often accompany chest pain
• Fatigue or weakness – Some people, especially women, experience extreme tiredness before a heart attack

What to Do in Case of a Heart Attack?

If you or someone around you experiences these symptoms, take immediate action:

• Call emergency services – Do not wait to see if symptoms go away
• Keep the person calm – Sitting down and staying relaxed reduces heart strain
• Give aspirin (if not allergic) – Aspirin helps thin the blood and improve flow
• Do not drive yourself to the hospital – Always call for medical help instead

What is Cardiac Arrest?

A cardiac arrest is a sudden and complete stoppage of the heart due to an electrical malfunction. The heart’s electrical system controls its beating. When this system malfunctions, the heart stops pumping blood, and the person collapses instantly, loses consciousness, and has no pulse.

Unlike a heart attack, cardiac arrest is always a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. Without CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) or a defibrillator (AED), a person can die within minutes.

Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest occurs suddenly and without warning. The signs include:

• Sudden collapse – The person falls unconscious
• No pulse – The heart is no longer beating
• No breathing – The person stops breathing or gasps for air
• Loss of consciousness – The person does not respond to touch or sound

What to Do in Case of Cardiac Arrest?

Since the heart has stopped beating, immediate action is needed to restore blood flow and prevent brain damage:

• Call emergency services immediately – Time is critical
• Start CPR – Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (100-120 compressions per minute)
• Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) – If available, follow the voice prompts on the AED to shock the heart back into rhythm
• Continue CPR until medical help arrives – Every second counts in saving a life

How Are Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest Connected?

While heart attacks and cardiac arrests are different, they are related. A severe heart attack can sometimes trigger cardiac arrest if the heart’s electrical system becomes unstable. That is why early treatment for heart problems is crucial in preventing complications.

Prevention: How to Keep Your Heart Healthy

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, but many cases can be prevented with lifestyle changes and regular check-ups. Taking care of your heart can significantly reduce the risk of both heart attacks and cardiac arrests.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits

• Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
• Exercise regularly to maintain good cardiovascular health
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
• Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels under control

The Importance of Regular Heart Check-Ups

Regular heart screenings can help detect early signs of heart disease before they become serious. Many heart problems show no symptoms until it is too late, which is why preventive screenings are essential for maintaining heart health.

To help you take charge of your heart health, Blessono Specialist Clinic is offering a Heart Screening Happy Hour for only RM600.

What is Included in the Heart Screening Package?

• Echocardiogram – A test that uses ultrasound to check how well the heart is pumping
• Stress Test – Assesses how the heart performs under physical activity
• ECG (Electrocardiogram) – Detects irregular heart rhythms and heart conditions

Early detection can save lives. Do not wait until symptoms appear—take a proactive approach to your heart health today.

Heart health is a lifelong commitment. By staying informed, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and getting regular check-ups, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from life-threatening heart conditions.