While both are life-threatening medical emergencies involving interrupted blood flow, a heart attack affects the heart, whereas a stroke affects the brain. Recognizing their distinct symptoms is critical for immediate survival and long-term recovery.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction) | Stroke (“Brain Attack”) |
|---|---|---|
| Organ | Heart muscle | Brain |
| Cause | Blockage in coronary arteries | Blocked or burst vessel in the brain |
| Primary Symptom | Chest pain or pressure | Sudden numbness or speech issues |
| Identification Tool | Chest discomfort and radiating pain | F.A.S.T. (Face, Arm, Speech, Time) |
Recognizing a Heart Attack
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a section of the heart muscle is blocked, causing tissue to die from lack of oxygen.
- Common Symptoms: Intense pressure, squeezing, or fullness in the center of the chest.
- Radiating Pain: Discomfort spreading to the jaw, neck, back, or down the arms (typically the left).
- Other Signs: Shortness of breath, cold sweats, nausea, and lightheadedness.
- Gender Differences: Women are more likely to experience “atypical” symptoms like extreme fatigue, indigestion, or jaw pain.
Recognizing a Stroke
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is either blocked by a clot (ischemic) or ruptures (hemorrhagic), depriving brain cells of oxygen.
- F.A.S.T. Warning Signs:
- F (Face): Does one side of the face droop? Ask the person to smile.
- A (Arms): Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms; see if one drifts downward.
- S (Speech): Is speech slurred or strange? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
- T (Time): If any of these signs are present, call emergency services immediately.
- Other Symptoms: Sudden confusion, trouble seeing in one or both eyes, loss of balance, or a “thunderclap” headache with no known cause.
Response and Action
- Contact Emergency Services Immediately: For both conditions, every minute increases the risk of permanent damage. Do not attempt to drive to the hospital yourself.
- Medical Evaluation: Professionals can distinguish the conditions using diagnostic tools like an EKG for the heart or a CT scan for the brain.
- Shared Risk Factors: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and obesity increase the risk for both.
For further guidance on prevention and recovery, consult the American Heart Association or the American Stroke Association.
This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or a diagnosis, consult a professional.
