Most people think heart attack and cardiac arrest are the same—but they are not. Understanding the difference can be lifesaving. This blog is based on insights from Dr. Kartik Bhosale, an experienced Interventional Cardiologist in Pune, known for providing clear, practical advice on heart care. As a trusted Heart Specialist in Pune, He believes that public awareness about these two conditions can reduce panic and save lives.
What is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack happens when blood can’t reach a part of the heart. This is usually because of a blockage in the heart’s blood vessels. When blood flow stops, the heart muscle starts getting damaged.
A person having a heart attack may feel chest pain, tightness, or heaviness. The pain may go to the left arm, jaw, or back. Some people also feel sweating, shortness of breath, or nausea. It doesn’t always happen suddenly—some signs start slowly and get worse.
Heart attacks happen mostly because of fatty deposits in the arteries, high blood pressure, smoking, stress, diabetes, or unhealthy eating habits.
What is Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest is very different. It happens suddenly when the heart stops beating. Blood stops flowing to the brain and body. The person becomes unconscious, stops breathing, and may fall to the ground. This is a medical emergency and needs immediate treatment.
Cardiac arrest is mostly caused by electrical problems in the heart. It may happen due to heart disease, a strong shock to the body, drowning, or a heart rhythm issue. In some cases, it happens without warning—even in healthy people.
What Should You Do in an Emergency?
For Heart Attack (First Aid):
- Call an ambulance or emergency help immediately
- Keep the person calm and seated
- Give aspirin (if no allergy)
- Loosen tight clothes
For Cardiac Arrest:
- Call for emergency help
- Start CPR for cardiac arrest immediately
- Use an AED (automated external defibrillator), if available
- Continue until medical help arrives.
Both heart attack and cardiac arrest are dangerous, but they are not the same. A heart attack is a circulation problem, while cardiac arrest is an electrical problem. Recognising symptoms like chest pain or sudden collapse, and knowing how to respond with the right heart attack first aid or cardiac arrest treatment, can save lives. If you have risk factors or a history of heart disease, consult a specialist. Dr. Kartik Bhosale, widely regarded as one of the Best Cardiologists in Pune, offers expert guidance and heart care solutions in a patient-friendly way.