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Understanding Heart Attack vs Heart Failure

Posted On: Oct 31, 2023

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Difference Between Heart attack and Heart Failure

Heart attack & heart failure are two of the most common heart conditions. They can be serious, but there are things you can do to prevent them and manage them if you have them. Learning about it is the start, and learning from experienced doctors is the best way forward. 

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack occurs when the blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked, usually through a blood clot. This can cause serious damage to the heart cells or even destroy part of the heart muscle.

Symptoms of a Heart Attack

The most commonly seen heart attack symptoms are listed below:

  • Chest pain or discomfort.

  • Shortness of breath

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Lightheadedness or dizziness.

  • Sweating

  • Anxiety

What is Heart Failure?

Heart failure is a condition which happens when the heart is unable to pump enough volumes of blood to meet the body's needs. This can be caused by a number of factors, including:

  • Coronary artery disease

  • Cardiomyopathy

  • Heart valve disease

  • High blood pressure

Symptoms of Heart Failure

The most common symptoms of heart failure are:

  • Shortness of breath

  • Fatigue

  • Swelling in the legs, feet, and ankles.

  • Weight gain

  • Coughing or wheezing

  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Difference between Heart Attack and Heart Failure

A heart attack is a sudden event that occurs when the blood flow to the heart muscle is blocked. Heart failure is a chronic condition that develops over time when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. Medical intervention may be required if the condition persists.

Treatment for Heart Attack and Heart Failure

The treatment for heart attack and heart failure depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause.

Treatment for Heart Attack

Treatment for a heart attack typically includes:

  • Medications to mitigate blood clots and restore blood flow to the heart.

  • Surgery to open the blocked artery.

  • Lifestyle changes are advised such as - quitting smoking.

  • Eating a healthy diet.

  • Exercising regularly.

Treatment for Heart Failure

Treatment for heart failure typically includes:

  • Medications may be prescribed to help the heart pump more efficiently.

  • Surgery to repair or replace damaged heart valves.

  • Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.

Consult cardiologists in Pune if you need treatment for heart attack and heart failure. 

Some Facts About Heart Attack and Heart Failure

  • Heart disease is one of the leading causes of loss of life for men and women in India.

  • Every 40 seconds, at least one person suffers a heart attack in India.

  • About 6.5 million adults in India have a risk of heart failure.

  • Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide.

Prevention of Heart Attack and Heart Failure

There are a number of things you can do to prevent heart attack and heart failure, including:

  • Eating a healthy diet.

  • Exercising regularly.

  • Quitting smoking.

  • Managing stress.

  • Controlling blood pressure.

  • Controlling cholesterol.

  • Maintaining a healthy weight.

  • Getting regular health checkups.

If you have any risk factors for heart disease, it is important to talk to a heart doctor about ways to reduce your risk. Manipal Hospitals Kharadi has some of the best Cardiologists in Pune for all your heart care needs.

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