Heart disease is a major health issue, and it can be difficult to understand the different conditions that fall under this umbrella term. One of the most confusing aspects can be differentiating between infarction and heart attack.

Both of these terms refer to damage to the heart muscle, but the causes, symptoms, and treatments are distinct. Here, we take a closer look at the differences between infarction and heart attack and how to recognize the symptoms of each.

What is Infarction?

Infarction is a term used to describe the irreversible damage to tissue that occurs when blood flow is cut off.

In the case of the heart, this occurs when one or more of the coronary arteries that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle become blocked. The blockage typically occurs as a result of a buildup of fatty deposits called plaque in the arteries, which narrows and hardens the vessels over time.

Infarction can occur in other parts of the body as well, but when it affects the heart, it is also known as myocardial infarction.

Infarction can range in severity from a small area of damage to a large portion of the heart muscle. The extent of the damage depends on how long the blood flow to the heart is restricted.

If the obstruction is not treated quickly, or if the artery is completely blocked, the heart muscle can die, leading to permanent damage or death.

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, is a type of infarction that specifically affects the heart muscle. It occurs when the blood supply to the heart is interrupted or blocked, leading to damage or death of the heart muscle.

The blockage is usually caused by a buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, which can rupture and form a clot that blocks blood flow.

Heart attacks can vary in severity, and symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening. Some people may experience a sudden onset of symptoms, while others may have more subtle warning signs. In some cases, heart attacks can be fatal.

Spotting the Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of infarction and heart attack is important, as quick treatment can be life-saving. While some symptoms are similar, there are some key differences.

Infarction Symptoms

Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Fatigue or weakness
Nausea or vomiting
Pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, back, or neck
Pain or discomfort in the jaw, arm, or shoulder

Heart Attack Symptoms

Chest pain or discomfort that may feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain
Shortness of breath
Discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
Sweating, nausea, or lightheadedness

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek emergency medical treatment right away.

Treatment

The treatment for infarction and heart attack depends on the severity of the condition and the extent of the damage to the heart muscle. In both cases, the goal of treatment is to restore blood flow to the heart and limit further damage.

Treatment for infarction may involve medications to dissolve the blood clot or surgery to remove it. In some cases, a procedure called angioplasty may be used to open up the blocked artery with a balloon or stent.

After treatment, it is important to make lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of further infarctions, such as eating a heart-healthy diet, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, and managing stress.

Treatment for a heart attack may involve medications to dissolve the blood clot, reduce chest pain, or control blood pressure.

Surgery may be necessary to open up the blocked artery, and in some cases, a procedure called revascularization may be used to improve blood flow to the heart. After a heart attack, it is important to make lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of future heart attacks, such as taking medications as prescribed, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking.

Conclusion

Infarction and heart attack are both serious conditions that can lead to permanent damage or death. While the symptoms can be similar, there are key differences between the two.

Knowing the symptoms of each can help you get prompt treatment and improve your chances of a full recovery. Lifestyle changes can also play a big role in reducing the risk of future infarctions or heart attacks, so it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to improve your heart health.