Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating due to an electrical malfunction, cutting off blood flow to the brain and vital organs. The person collapses, becomes unresponsive, and stops breathing or gasps for air. Immediate CPR and use of an Automated External Defibrillator can double or triple survival rates, with survival decreasing by about 10 percent for every minute without intervention.
A heart attack happens when blood flow to the heart is blocked, usually by a clogged artery, preventing oxygen from reaching the heart muscle. Symptoms may include chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea, or vomiting, and they can develop suddenly or gradually over time. Heart attack symptoms may differ in women and can include back pain, jaw pain, or shortness of breath. Unlike cardiac arrest, the heart typically continues beating during a heart attack, but fast treatment is still critical to reduce damage.
A heart attack can sometimes lead to cardiac arrest, but most do not. Knowing the difference and acting quickly can save lives. Call 911 immediately if cardiac arrest or heart attack is suspected, begin CPR if needed, and seek emergency care without delay. Learning CPR and recognizing the warning signs empowers individuals and families to respond confidently when every second counts.
Anyone can learn CPR, and timely bystander action can double or triple a person's chances of survival. For CPR resources, visit the American Heart Association at heart.org/cpr.