When someone collapses unexpectedly, most people instinctively think “heart attack.” But did you know that cardiac arrest and a heart attack are two very different medical emergencies? While both involve the heart, they require different treatments. Acting quickly and appropriately can mean the difference between life and death.
In this blog, we’re going to look at the main differences between a heart attack and cardiac arrest, how defibrillators play a life-saving role, and why understanding these distinctions is so important.
Definitions and differences between heart attacks and cardiac arrest
What is a heart attack?
A heart attack, medically known as a myocardial infarction, happens when a blockage in the coronary arteries reduces or completely stops blood flow to the heart. This blockage is typically caused by a build-up of fatty deposits or plaque. Even though the heart is struggling, it’s still beating and pumping blood, just not as efficiently.
People experiencing a heart attack are usually conscious and may report symptoms such as:
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea or dizziness
- Pain that radiates to the arms, jaw, or back
In some cases, a heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, but they aren’t the same thing.
What is cardiac arrest?
Cardiac arrest, on the other hand, is a sudden electrical malfunction that causes the heart to quiver or flutter uncontrollably, a condition called ventricular fibrillation. Instead of pumping blood effectively, the heart essentially twitches, and circulation to the brain and other vital organs stops.
Unlike a heart attack, cardiac arrest happens abruptly, often without warning. The person will:
- Collapse suddenly
- Stop breathing or gasp irregularly
- Lose consciousness
Without immediate intervention, death can occur within minutes. This is where a defibrillator becomes a life-saving tool.
How defibrillators treat cardiac arrest
When cardiac arrest strikes, every second counts. A person’s chances of survival reduce by 10% every minute that goes by without CPR/defibrillator intervention. A defibrillator (often called an AED or Automated External Defibrillator) is designed to deliver an electric shock that resets the heart’s rhythm, giving it a chance to start beating normally again.
Public access defibrillators, commonly found in airports, schools, and other public places, are built to be used by anyone, regardless of medical training. These devices analyse the heart’s rhythm and will only deliver a shock if necessary, ensuring they’re used safely.
Here’s how defibrillators save lives during cardiac arrest:
- Assessing the heart rhythm: The AED analyses whether the heart is in a shockable rhythm.
- Delivering a shock: If needed, the defibrillator delivers a controlled electric shock to restore a normal rhythm.
- Guiding rescuers: Many AEDs provide voice prompts or visual feedback to guide rescuers through CPR and shock delivery.
Are defibrillators used for heart attacks?
Since a heart attack is caused by a blockage, the heart is still beating, just less effectively. Because of this, a defibrillator isn’t the first line of treatment. Instead, the focus during a heart attack is on maintaining blood flow and preventing further damage.
This is where CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) becomes essential. By performing chest compressions, you help keep oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and other organs until emergency responders arrive.
While public defibrillators aren’t useful in treating heart attacks, paramedics and ambulance crews carry advanced defibrillators that can handle more complex cases if cardiac arrest occurs.
The role of CPR and defibrillators together
In cases of cardiac arrest, CPR and defibrillators work hand in hand to improve survival rates.
- CPR maintains minimal blood circulation, buying precious time.
- Defibrillation restores a normal rhythm if the heart is in fibrillation.
Modern AEDs often come equipped with feedback devices that provide real-time guidance on compression depth and speed, ensuring that rescuers give the most effective CPR possible. When CPR is started immediately and an AED is used within minutes, survival rates can increase dramatically.
Educating the public: Why awareness saves lives
Despite the key differences between the onset of a heart attack and cardiac arrest, there is still often confusion among the general public. Education is needed to keep improving survival rates by ensuring people respond appropriately, regardless of the emergency.
Here’s how communities can make a difference:
- CPR and AED training: Encourage community members to take CPR courses and familiarise themselves with AEDs.
- Recognising the signs: Teach people how to identify the symptoms of both heart attacks and cardiac arrests.
- Promoting action: Stress the importance of acting quickly, even if you’re unsure of the exact condition.
- Equip your space: Ensure your workplace, school, or community centre has a public access defibrillator.
Remember, public access defibrillators are designed for use by anyone, and Good Samaritan laws protect those who try to help in emergencies.
If you’re not sure where to start or you’d like some tailored advice, please contact us today. Our friendly team will be happy to answer any questions and offer recommendations suited to you and your needs.