What is the difference between cardiac arrest, heart failure and myocardial infarction?

Cardiac arrest is a condition when the heart suddenly stops beating, due to sudden loss of blood flow resulting from the failure of the heart to pump effectively. Heart failure is a chronic, progressive condition in which the heart muscle is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs for blood and oxygen. In case of myocardial infarction there is damage to the heart muscle caused by a loss of blood supply due to blocks in the arteries.

What is a silent heart attack?

A silent heart attack, known as a silent myocardial infarction (SMI), accounts for 45% of heart attacks and strikes men more than women. It is described as "silent" because when they occur, their symptoms lack the intensity of a classic heart attack, such as extreme chest pain and pressure; stabbing pain in the arm, neck, or jaw; sudden shortness of breath; sweating, and dizziness.

Is there a difference between a heart attack and a myocardial infarction?

A heart attack is common terminology for myocardial infarction (MI). An MI occurs when a coronary artery, one of the arteries that supplies blood to the heart muscle, becomes blocked suddenly. The sudden blockage robs a portion of the heart muscle of its vital blood supply, and the muscle dies.

What are the first signs of a heart attack in a woman?

Heart attacks strike differently in men and women. The six most common heart attack symptoms in women are: 1. Pain or discomfort in the chest, that particularly spreads to arms, neck, back or even jaw 2. Pain in stomach, especially above the belly button 3. Cold sweat, nausea, light-headedness, or shortness of breath 4. Unusual and unexplained fatigue 5. Suddenly being panicky or nervous 6. An unusual headache that worsens with time

Is it gas or a heart attack?

Most people get confused between a heartburn and a heart attack because both cause pain and discomfort in the chest. The other common symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, discomfort or pain in the shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back; shortness of breath, sweating, nausea and lightheadedness. On the other hand, it might be a heartburn if you experience discomfort in the chest after a heavy meal or spicy meal, pain that moves up the throat but not radiates to the arms, neck or shoulders and a bitter taste in the mouth or pain which worsens when you lie down.

When to go to a doctor for chest pain?

Most often than not, people tend to ignore any pain or discomfort in the chest thinking it could be due to acidity or a heartburn but it could be a subtle sign of a heart attack. If you feel pain in the left arm or upper part of the jaw which is accompanied by sweating, then it could be a sign of a heart attack. In such a case, rush to a hospital immediately.

What does an angina attack feel like?

Angina is chest pain or discomfort caused when your heart muscle doesn't get enough oxygen-rich blood. It may feel like pressure or squeezing in your chest. The discomfort also can occur in your shoulders, arms, neck, jaw, or back. Angina pain may even feel like indigestion.

Heart attack

Written By Dr. Swati MishraBDS

Reviewed By Dr. Rajeev Sharma

MBA, MBBS

Last updated on: 24 Feb 2026 | 12:51 PM (IST)

Overview

Myocardial infarction, commonly known as heart attack, occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart stops, causing damage to the heart muscle.

The heart muscles need oxygen to survive. When the blood supply carrying the oxygen to the heart muscles is blocked due to the buildup of plaque (fatty substances) within the arteries, it leads to damage of the muscles. If the blood flow to the heart is not restored quickly it can cause permanent damage to the muscles, leading to a heart attack.

Myocardial infarction is one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. The symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, discomfort in the back, sweating, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath. In case of a suspected heart attack, the person should be given aspirin and rushed to a hospital immediately. One should not wait for symptoms to settle. The earlier the person is rushed to the hospital, the better are the chances of survival.

A heart attack can be treated with medications and in some cases, surgery might be required. The chances of a second heart attack can be prevented with simple lifestyle modifications, regular check-ups and medications.

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