08/14/2026
🫀 HEART ATTACK vs CARDIAC ARREST: Know the Difference
These terms are often used interchangeably, but they are very different medical emergencies requiring different responses.
🫀 HEART ATTACK (Plumbing Problem):
• A blockage in a coronary artery.
• The person is usually conscious and breathing.
• Blood flow is cut off, but the heart is still beating.
⚠️ Signs:
• Chest pain, pressure, or squeezing.
• Pain in the arm, jaw, back, neck, or stomach.
• Shortness of breath, nausea, or cold sweat.
• Women: fatigue, anxiety, and back pain.
🆘 What to Do:
1️⃣ Call 911.
2️⃣ Have them sit down and rest.
3️⃣ Loosen tight clothing.
4️⃣ Help with prescribed nitroglycerin or aspirin (325 mg) to chew.
5️⃣ Stay with them until help arrives.
💔 CARDIAC ARREST (Electrical Problem):
• The heart stops beating effectively.
• Sudden collapse and unresponsive.
• No breathing or only gasping.
⚠️ Signs:
• Sudden collapse.
• Unresponsive.
• Not breathing normally.
🆘 What to Do:
1️⃣ Call 911.
2️⃣ Start CPR immediately (100-120 bpm).
3️⃣ Use an AED as soon as possible.
4️⃣ Continue until EMS arrives.
💡 A heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest. Getting trained in CPR and First Aid means you're ready for both.
📅 Get Cert Ready this summer.