Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) and heart attacks are two different medical emergencies that involve the heart, but they have distinct causes and consequences. Here’s a breakdown of each condition:
What is a heart attack? One can get to a heart attack when the blocked artery prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching in the various parts of the heart. If the blocked artery fails to the reopen, then the part of the heart that is a usually nourished by that artery tends to the die. The longer a person goes without a treatment, in the greater the damage will be…
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA): Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating unexpectedly. It typically happens due to an electrical problem in the heart that disrupts its normal rhythm, causing it to quiver or “fibrillate” instead of pumping blood effectively. This irregular heartbeat, known as ventricular fibrillation, results in a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs.
Causes of Sudden Cardiac Arrest: 1. Coronary artery disease: Most cases of SCA are related to underlying coronary artery disease, which occurs when the heart’s blood vessels become narrowed or blocked due to plaque buildup.
2. Heart attack: A heart attack can trigger SCA, as the damage to the heart muscle can disrupt its electrical system. 3. Heart rhythm disorders: Certain heart rhythm disorders, such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, can lead to SCA. 4. Structural abnormalities: Some structural abnormalities of the heart, such as congenital heart defects or enlarged heart chambers, can increase the risk of SCA. 5. Drug abuse, trauma, or electrocution: Certain external factors can also trigger SCA..
Symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Arrest: Unlike a heart attack, sudden cardiac arrest usually occurs without warning. The person may collapse suddenly, lose consciousness, and stop breathing or have difficulty breathing.
Treatment of Sudden Cardiac Arrest: Immediate treatment is crucial for survival. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be initiated right away to maintain blood flow to the brain and other organs. Along with CPR, an automated external defibrillator (AED) should be used as soon as possible to deliver an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. Advanced medical care, such as medications or implantable devices, may be necessary for long-term management and prevention of future episodes.
Heart Attack:
A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when there is a blockage in the coronary arteries, cutting off blood flow to a portion of the heart muscle. Without prompt medical attention, the affected heart muscle can be damaged or die.
Heart attacks are usually caused by the formation of a blood clot in one of the coronary arteries. This clot often develops at the site of a ruptured or narrowed plaque, which is a fatty deposit on the artery wall. The plaque buildup, a condition known as atherosclerosis, reduces blood flow to the heart muscle, and a complete blockage can cause a heart attack.
Symptoms of a Heart Attack:
The symptoms of a heart attack can vary, but common signs and symptoms include: 1. Chest pain or discomfort: This can feel like pressure, tightness, squeezing, or pain in the chest that may radiate to the arm, jaw, back, or stomach. 2. Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling breathless, often accompanying chest discomfort. 3. Nausea, lightheadedness, or cold sweats: Some people may experience these symptoms along with chest pain.
Treatment of Heart Attacks:
If you suspect a heart attack, it is crucial to seek emergency medical attention immediately. Early treatment aims to restore blood flow to the affected part of the heart and minimize damage. Treatments may include medications to dissolve the blood clot or perform emergency procedures such as angioplasty and stenting to open the blocked artery. After the acute phase, lifestyle changes, medications, and cardiac rehabilitation are typically recommended to reduce the risk of future heart problems.
