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The term "massive heart attack" is sometimes mistakenly used to describe SCA. A heart attack (or myocardial infarction) occurs when a blockage slows or stops blood flow to some part of the heart muscle. If the blockage is severe or if it is left untreated, that part of the heart muscle can die. Heart attacks do not necessarily cause cardiac arrest or sudden cardiac death, although those conditions could result.
Heart attack and SCA produce different symptoms in their victims. Whereas SCA causes a person to collapse suddenly, a heart attack often provides some warning signs in advance.
Symptoms to look for in victims of SCA
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Collapse and loss of consciousness
Cessation of normal breathing
Loss of pulse and blood pressure
Symptoms of heart attack victims
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Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain in the center of the chest lasting more than a few minutes
Pain spreading to the shoulders, neck, or arms
Chest discomfort with lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath
Atypical chest pain, stomach, or abdominal pain
Nausea or dizziness
Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
Unexplained anxiety, weakness, or fatigue
Palpitations, cold sweat, or paleness
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