The Difference Between Heart Failure and Heart Attack

Heart Attack

In Terms of Causes:

Begins with the formation of cholesterol plaques in the coronary arteries.
These plaques enlarge, narrowing or blocking the coronary artery walls.
Blockage occurs when a portion of the plaque ruptures, releasing fragments into the bloodstream, traveling to smaller blood vessels.
This blockage reduces oxygen and nutrient supply to the heart muscle, leading to coronary artery disease.
If complete blockage occurs, it damages the heart muscle and results in a heart attack.

In Terms of Symptoms:

Begins with the formation of cholesterol plaques in the coronary arteries.
These plaques enlarge, narrowing or blocking the coronary artery walls.
Blockage can occur when a portion of the plaque ruptures, releasing fragments into the bloodstream, traveling to smaller blood vessels.
This blockage reduces oxygen and nutrient supply to the heart muscle, leading to coronary artery disease.
If complete blockage occurs, it damages the heart muscle and results in a heart attack.

In Terms of Treatment:

Immediate treatment to prevent further damage to the heart muscle.
Administration of blood thinners to reduce clotting around ruptured plaque fragments.
Nitroglycerin to widen blocked blood vessels.
Clearing blockages via stent placement or bypass surgery.

Heart Failure

In Terms of Causes:

Caused by a combination of various conditions that gradually weaken the heart muscle over time, making it unable to pump blood effectively.
High blood pressure (hypertension).
Heart valve disorders that force the heart muscle to work harder to pump blood.
Damage to the heart muscle due to alcohol consumption, viral infections, or certain medications.
Congenital heart defects.
Lung diseases.
Diabetes.

In Terms of Symptoms:

Usually develops and worsens gradually.
Shortness of breath, especially when lying down.
Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
Easily fatigued.
Persistent cough.
Swelling in the legs, feet, or abdomen due to fluid buildup (edema) caused by heart pump failure.
Fatigue and shortness of breath during light physical activities, such as getting up, walking a few steps, or climbing stairs.
Weight gain due to fluid retention.

In Terms of Treatment:

Administration of blood thinners or nitroglycerin.
Blood pressure-lowering medication (if caused by hypertension).
Irregular heartbeat treatment via pacemaker installation.
Removal of fluid buildup with diuretics.
Lifestyle changes, such as reducing salt intake, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Conclusion:

Heart attacks are caused by coronary artery blockages.
Heart failure is caused by coronary artery disease or other conditions, such as heart valve disorders or hypertension.

Reviewed by: dr. Shinta Hidayani Utami

Source: Alodokter Health Article

Photo: freepik.com

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