Heart Attack vs Cardiac Arrest vs Heart Failure: How To Know The Difference?

Heart disease has emerged as a leading killer globally, claiming numerous lives every year. The alarming rise in cardiovascular diseases has become a pressing concern, especially among the youth. Often, terms like heart attack, cardiac arrest and heart failure are used interchangeably, despite being distinct conditions. This confusion can lead to delayed treatment and poor outcomes. As the prevalence of heart disease continues to rise, it's essential to understand the differences between these conditions. Heart disease encompasses various conditions including those affecting blood vessels, heart muscles and valves.

Alarmingly, heart disease is increasingly affecting younger populations, making it essential to clarify the differences between these conditions and raise awareness about prevention, diagnosis and treatment options. Here, we've drawn a comparison between heart attack, cardiac arrest and heart failure that will help you identify the health condition.

Difference Between Heart Attack, Cardiac Arrest And Heart Failure

Heart Attack

A heart attack occurs when a clogged artery restricts oxygen-rich blood from reaching a specific area of the heart, typically due to the buildup of fatty deposits or plaque in the coronary arteries. If the blockage isn't promptly cleared, the lack of oxygen causes the heart muscle to deteriorate. Symptoms can be sudden and severe such as intense chest pain or gradual with mild discomfort. Women's symptoms of a heart attack can be surprisingly subtle, manifesting as shortness of breath, fatigue or nausea rather than the typical chest pain.

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Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest is a sudden and potentially fatal condition where the heart ceases to pump blood due to an electrical error. This 'electrical' problem differs from a heart attack. Cardiac arrest occurs unexpectedly, stopping blood flow to vital organs including the brain and lungs, resulting in an irregular heartbeat, loss of consciousness and breathing. Death can occur within minutes if left untreated. Notably, cardiac arrest often strikes without warning signs such as chest pain or breathlessness.

How to identify the right heart disease? (Image Credits: Canva)

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Heart Failure

Heart failure occurs when the heart is unable to pump sufficient blood to meet the body's needs, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs and other areas. This condition manifests through symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling in the ankles and legs, persistent coughing, reduced exercise tolerance and abdominal discomfort due to fluid buildup. Unlike heart attacks or cardiac arrest, heart failure is a chronic condition that develops over time. Diagnosis typically involves an echocardiogram, an ultrasound of the heart and blood tests to assess the heart's pumping efficiency and identify underlying causes.

Disclaimer: This content, including suggestions and advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information before making any drastic changes in your lifestyle.