Cardiologist in Jaipur Explains: Difference Between a Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

When it comes to heart-related emergencies, people often confuse heart attack and cardiac arrest. Although these conditions are both serious and require immediate medical attention, they are not the same. Understanding the difference between the two can help you respond effectively in a crisis and potentially save a life.

As an experienced cardiologist in Jaipur, Dr. Ankit Gupta explains how these conditions differ in cause, symptoms, and treatment—and why timely care is critical.

What Is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack, or myocardial infarction, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot in a coronary artery. This interruption prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching that part of the heart muscle, causing damage or death of heart tissue.

✅ Common Causes of Heart Attack:

• Blocked coronary arteries due to plaque buildup (atherosclerosis)

• Blood clot formation

• Severe narrowing of arteries

🩺 Symptoms of a Heart Attack:

• Chest pain or discomfort (tightness, pressure, or squeezing)

• Pain that radiates to the left arm, neck, back, or jaw

• Shortness of breath

• Cold sweats

• Nausea or vomiting

• Dizziness or light-headedness

Dr. Ankit Gupta emphasizes that heart attacks often start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. People might not realize they're experiencing a heart attack, which is why seeking early heart attack treatment in Jaipur is crucial to prevent complications.

What Is Cardiac Arrest?

A cardiac arrest is a sudden and complete loss of heart function. This occurs when the heart's electrical system malfunctions, causing it to stop beating effectively. As a result, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs.

Without immediate treatment, cardiac arrest leads to sudden death within minutes.

✅ Common Causes of Cardiac Arrest:

• Ventricular fibrillation (abnormal, chaotic heart rhythm)

• Previous heart attack

• Cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart)

• Electrical abnormalities (e.g., long QT syndrome)

• Drug overdose or severe trauma

🩺 Symptoms of Cardiac Arrest:

• Sudden collapse

• No pulse

• No breathing

• Loss of consciousness

Unlike a heart attack, cardiac arrest strikes abruptly and without warning. Immediate CPR and use of a defibrillator (AED) are required to restore heart rhythm and circulation.

Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest: Quick Comparison

Is There a Connection Between the Two?

Yes. A heart attack can sometimes lead to cardiac arrest, especially if the heart’s rhythm becomes unstable. This is why even minor chest discomfort should never be ignored.

What to Do During an Emergency

🚨 If Someone Is Having a Heart Attack:

• Call emergency services immediately

• Help the person sit in a comfortable position

• Loosen tight clothing

• Offer aspirin (only if advised and not allergic)

• Reassure them while waiting for medical help

🚑 If Someone Collapses from Cardiac Arrest:

• Check responsiveness and breathing

• Call for help and emergency services

• Start CPR immediately

• Use an AED if available

• Continue until medical personnel arrive

Quick action can be life-saving in both scenarios.

Heart Attack Treatment in Jaipur by Dr. Ankit Gupta

Dr. Ankit Gupta is a renowned cardiologist in Jaipur, known for his expertise in treating various cardiac conditions with compassion and precision. His clinic offers:

• Advanced diagnostics like ECG, echocardiography, and angiography

• 24x7 emergency care for heart attacks and cardiac arrest

• Minimally invasive treatments, including angioplasty and stent placement

• Comprehensive post-treatment cardiac rehabilitation

If you or a loved one is showing signs of a heart problem, don’t wait. Early detection and prompt treatment are the keys to better outcomes.

How to Prevent Heart Attack and Cardiac Arrest

Dr. Ankit Gupta recommends these tips to protect your heart:

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Eat a heart-healthy diet (low in salt, sugar, and saturated fats)

• Exercise regularly (30 minutes a day)

• Manage stress effectively

• Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake

• Keep cholesterol, blood pressure, and diabetes in check

• Go for regular heart checkups with a trusted cardiologist in Jaipur

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest can be life-saving. While both are medical emergencies, they differ in symptoms, causes, and treatment approaches. Knowing how to respond—and where to seek help—is vital.

If you're at risk or have experienced any symptoms, consult Dr. Ankit Gupta, a leading cardiologist in Jaipur, for expert diagnosis, guidance, and heart attack treatment in Jaipur.