What is the Difference Between Myocardial Infarction and Cardiac Arrest?

The main difference between myocardial infarction (heart attack) and cardiac arrest lies in their causes and manifestations:

Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): This occurs when one or more of the coronary arteries becomes blocked, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscle. If left untreated, the affected area of the heart muscle begins to die due to lack of oxygen. Heart attacks are caused by circulation problems, such as blockages in the heart's arteries.
Cardiac Arrest: This is an electrical problem where the heart's electrical system malfunctions, causing the heart to beat rapidly and chaotically or to stop beating altogether. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops functioning, and it refers to the malfunction or stopping of normal heart activity. It can be caused by various factors, including heart failure and disrupted heart rhythms.

While heart attacks can lead to cardiac arrest, not all heart attacks result in cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest often occurs suddenly and without warning, and without immediate treatment, the person can die within minutes. In contrast, heart attacks typically happen over a period of hours or days, gradually worsening as the blockage remains.

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What is the Difference Between Myocardial Infarction and Cardiac Arrest?

Comparative Table: Myocardial Infarction vs Cardiac Arrest

Myocardial infarction (MI), often referred to as a heart attack, and cardiac arrest are two different life-threatening medical emergencies that involve the heart. Here is a comparison between the two:

Feature	Myocardial Infarction (MI)	Cardiac Arrest
Definition	A blockage that prevents oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart, causing damage to the heart muscle.	The heart stops pumping blood and oxygen to the body, leading to a loss of consciousness and normal breathing.
Causes	Caused by a blockage in the arteries.	Caused by an electrical issue or disruption of the heart's rhythm.
Symptoms	Chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.	Dizziness, loss of consciousness, shortness of breath, and unresponsiveness.
Treatment	Involves medications and interventions to restore blood flow to the heart.	Requires immediate action, including CPR and potentially the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED) to restore the heart's normal rhythm.
Outcome	Permanent damage to the heart muscle may occur, but it does not necessarily lead to death.	Death can occur within minutes if not treated promptly.

It is crucial to respond quickly to both MI and cardiac arrest, as they are life-threatening conditions. If you suspect either of these conditions, call emergency services immediately and initiate appropriate life-saving measures, such as CPR and using an AED.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.