Last Updated on November 1, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Heart attack and stroke are two life-threatening conditions that can strike suddenly are heart attacks and strokes. While they share some symptoms, there are differences between heart attack and stroke, each requiring its own prompt response. In this article, we will explore how to identify the difference between a heart attack and a stroke to ensure you or a loved one gets the right medical attention.
What are the symptoms of a heart attack?
A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when there is a sudden blockage in one or more of the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. The lack of blood flow can damage or destroy part of the heart muscle. Recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack is vital for seeking immediate medical assistance.
- Chest Pain or Discomfort: One of the most common signs of a heart attack is severe, crushing chest pain or discomfort. This pain is usually centred in the chest and may radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, or back. It is often described as a feeling of pressure, squeezing, or fullness.
- Shortness of Breath: Many heart attack victims experience shortness of breath, which can occur with or without chest discomfort. It is often a result of the heart’s inability to pump blood effectively due to the compromised blood flow.
- Cold Sweats: Profuse sweating, especially when combined with other symptoms, can be an indicator of a heart attack. The body’s reaction to pain and distress often includes sweating.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Some individuals may feel nauseated or vomit during a heart attack, although this symptom is more common among women.
- Lightheadedness or Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy can be a sign of reduced blood flow to the brain. This symptom may accompany a heart attack, particularly in older individuals.
What are the symptoms of a stroke?
A stroke, on the other hand, is a cerebrovascular event that occurs when there is a sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain. Identifying the symptoms of a stroke is crucial because prompt treatment can significantly improve the chances of a full recovery.
- Sudden Numbness or Weakness: One-sided weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg is a common symptom of a stroke. A drooping or sagging appearance on one side of the face may also be observed.
- Trouble Speaking: Difficulty speaking, slurred speech, or the inability to comprehend speech can be indicative of a stroke. Asking the person to repeat a simple sentence, like ‘The sky is blue,’ can help assess their speech function.
- Severe Headache: A sudden, severe headache with no apparent cause can be a sign of a hemorrhagic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures. This type of stroke is less common but particularly dangerous.
- Vision Problems: Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes, such as double vision, blurred vision, or loss of vision, can be stroke symptoms.
- Loss of Coordination: A sudden loss of balance or coordination, coupled with dizziness or difficulty walking, can indicate a stroke. The person may stumble or appear disoriented.
What are the potential differences between the action steps for these medical emergencies?
Both heart attacks and strokes share similarities like nausea, lightheadedness, and shortness of breath. However, the key differences lie in heart disease and stroke symptoms. A heart attack primarily manifests as chest pain, while a stroke is characterized by sudden numbness, weakness, and trouble speaking or seeing.
If you suspect someone is having a heart attack, immediately visit a hospital. Chew and swallow aspirin if available and the person is not allergic. Begin CPR if the person becomes unresponsive. If you suspect someone is having a stroke, think ‘FAST’. F stands for face drooping, A stands for arm weakness, S stands for speech difficulty, and T stands for time to call help. Swift action is vital to prevent further brain damage in the case of a stroke.
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