Here in this blog, we aim to explain the difference between heart attack and cardiac arrest and what to do in these emergencies.
First, understand the basics – a heart attack is not the same as a cardiac arrest.
Heart attack is when one of the coronary arteries becomes blocked. It occurs when the heart muscle is robbed off its blood supply and, if it is left untreated then the heart muscles will begin to die. This is typically because the muscle will not be getting enough oxygen for survival.
On the other hand; a cardiac arrest occurs when a person’s heart stops pumping blood around their body. The victim then stops breathing normally.
Source=”American Heart Association”
Most of the times cardiac arrests in adults happen due to a heart attack. This is because a person who is having a heart attack may develop irregular heart rhythm, which can cause a cardiac arrest.
A heart attack and a cardiac arrest are both emergency situations. Call medical help straight away. In the case of a cardiac arrest you can do Hands-only CPR.
What’s heart attack?
As already briefed; heart attack occurs when a blocked artery prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching a section of the heart. If the blocked artery is not reopened quickly, the artery muscle begins to die. Unlike with cardiac arrest, in case of heart attack the heart usually does not stop beating.
What’s cardiac arrest?
Sudden cardiac arrest occurs suddenly and often without warning. In most of the cases cardiac arrest is triggered by an electrical malfunction in the heart , which causes irregular heartbeat. In case of cardiac arrest the victim loses consciousness and has no pulse. Death may occur within minutes if the victim does not receive treatment.
What’s the link between the two?
Heart attack and cardiac arrest are linked. Sudden cardiac arrest may occur after a heart attack, or when the patient is recovering. Keep in mind; heart attacks may also increase the risk for sudden cardiac arrest. Although most of the heart attacks do not lead to sudden cardiac arrest but in case of a sudden cardiac arrest occurs, heart attack stands as a common cause.
What to do in case of a Heart Attack
Even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, call for medical help. Look for medical help and heart attack treatment in Kolkata. The aim of heart attack treatment is to save the heart muscle from damage following lack of blood supply. Medications and Lifestyle Modifications are prescribed by the doctors for reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
Roughly one third of the patients with CAD undergo coronary angioplasty and stenting in Kolkata. Treatments for coronary artery disease can help in controlling the cardiovascular disease. Take medication. Stick to a light diet and exercise. When these changes aren’t enough, your cardiologist may recommend a stent implant or in some cases a bypass surgery.
What to do in case of Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Keep in mind; cardiac arrest is reversible in most victims if it’s treated within a few minutes. Call medical help. Begin CPR immediately and continue until professional emergency medical services arrive.
How successful is coronary angioplasty and heart stenting in Kolkata?
Coronary Angioplasty and heart stenting is a safe procedure depending on the patient’s clinical condition and on the underlying coronary artery disease, whether or not the patient has any previous history of heart attack, bypass surgery and the overall condition and function of the heart also determines the success rate.