10/20/2026
Reposting this important information! We can't know how or when to start if we can't recognize what is happening!
Heart attack vs. cardiac arrest: what’s the difference? ❤️
At a conference last December, I heard about a study showing that many people think a heart attack and cardiac arrest are the same thing. Here’s a simple way to remember the difference:
🫀 Heart attack = a blood flow problem. A blocked blood vessel stops blood from reaching part of the heart muscle. The heart is still beating, and the person is awake and breathing. They may have chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, or weakness.
⚡ Cardiac arrest = an electrical problem. The heart’s electrical system malfunctions, and the heart stops pumping blood effectively. The person collapses, becomes unresponsive, and is not breathing normally.
A heart attack can sometimes lead to cardiac arrest. Both are emergencies: call 911. If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR and use an AED as soon as one is available.
Knowing the difference can help you do your best until professional help arrives. ❤️