Difference Between Heart attack and Heart Arrest?

What is the difference between Heart attack and Cardiac arrest?


Heart attack and Cardiac arrest are the two terms we often hear in the discussion about the Heart. In today's blog, we are going to take a brief look at the difference between Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest. So let's get started.


Dr. Abhijeet Palshikar
  • May 12, 2023


Heart attack vs cardiac arrest?


When a person dies, it's because his/her Heart stops functioning. Either the person can be Brain dead or have a Cardiac arrest. In the case of the Braindead individual, the whole body is working perfectly, except the brain. In another case, the Heart stops functioning, and this situation is known as Cardiac arrest. When a body suffers from cardiac arrest, the blood circulation of the body stops entirely, resulting in the death of the patient.

But a heart attack is not the only reason for cardiac arrest. There are multiple factors that can cause Cardiac arrest. Whenever a person faces a heart attack, he/she feels pain in the Heart, the blood flow in the Heart stops, blood pressure reduces, and the person starts sweating. This condition is known as a Heart attack. In some cases, there is a possibility that the patient's Heart might stop working, and this condition is known as Cardiac arrest, resulting in the death of the patient.

But there are other reasons too that can cause Cardiac Arrest. For e.g, Brain Haemorrhage, accident, spine injury or severe blood loss. In these conditions, the Heart stops working, and we call this situation a cardiac arrest.

Heart attacks can cause cardiac arrests in some patients. Cardiac arrest is the point of no return in most cases. Doctors sometimes try to save the patient by giving the patient a message or respiration, which might save some lives. But the possibilities of revival are very few.

On the contrary, a heart attack is not the end. A heart attack is a health condition. If the patient gets it treated on time with the help of a specialist, he/she can live a normal, healthier and longer life.


If you have even the slightest doubt, is it not better just to consult?



Wrapping up


Remember, you don't have to stress yourself further if you have suffered a heart attack. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, you can live a normal life once again. Cardiac arrest is an end, but Heart is not. So if you are facing heart-related issues, do not waste any more time. Consult a specialist who can help you with your condition.

We hope this quick guide on the difference between Heart attack and cardiac arrest has clarified all your doubts. Still, if you have some questions related to heart-health or need assistance with your heart condition, do not hesitate to contact us. Our experts will get back to you with assistance.

About Author

Dr. Abhijeet Palshikar
Interventional & Consultant Cardiologist Pune

Dr. Abhijeet Palshikar is a Senior Consultant Cardiologist based in Pune. With more than 15 years of experience in interventional cardiology, he is the leader in cardiology field in Pune. He has treated 10,000+ cases and 7,000+ interventions in freelancer practice.