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November 2002
Volume XXVIII, Number 5
Media reports often refer to people dying from a "massive heart attack." Chances are, however, the person was a victim of sudden cardiac arrest. A heart attack can trigger sudden cardiac arrest, but they are not the same.
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) strikes without warning. The victim quickly loses consciousness and, unless a defibrillator is used to reverse the condition, death follows in a matter of minutes. SCA occurs when the heart quivers in a chaotic rhythm called ventricular fibrillation (VF). VF most often results from a heart attack, but may also follow electrocution, drowning, or a sudden blow to the chest.
Heart attack occurs when the blood supply to part of the heart muscle is reduced because of a blockage in an artery. Cardiologists explain that most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back. Warning signs may also include shortness of breath and pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach. Heart attack victims are routinely treated with clot-busting drugs or surgery to reopen blocked arteries.
While both heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest are medical emergencies, a person suffering SCA literally has only minutes to live. Experts believe that greater access to defibrillators through programs like Neighborhood Heart Watch could double the chances of surviving sudden cardiac arrest.
Heart Attack
- Cause: Reduced blood supply to heart muscle
- Symptoms: Chest discomfort Discomfort in other areas of the upper body Shortness of breath Cold sweat, nausea, lightheadedness
- Treatment: Get to a hospital right away Weigh options to reopen blocked arteries
Sudden Cardiac Arrest
- Cause: Chaotic heart rhythm
- Symptoms: Sudden loss of consciousness No normal breathing No signs of circulation No signs of movement or coughing
- Treatment: Call 911 Begin CPR and use an AED
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