Heart Attack vs. Stroke: Key Differences in Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

Cause

Blockage of a coronary artery (usually by ruptured atherosclerotic plaque + thrombus) → ischemia and necrosis of heart muscle.

Classic Symptoms

• Chest pressure, squeezing, or pain (may radiate to arms, neck, jaw, back)
• Shortness of breath
• Cold sweat, nausea, lightheadedness
• Women may have atypical symptoms: fatigue, indigestion, upper back pain.

Emergency Treatment

• Call 911 immediately.
• Chew 325 mg aspirin (if not allergic).
• EMS/hospital: ECG, troponin, emergent reperfusion (PCI ± stenting or fibrinolytics).
• Long-term: antiplatelets, statin, beta-blocker, ACEI/ARB, cardiac rehab, lifestyle.

Stroke (Brain Attack)

Cause

• Ischemic stroke (87%): Artery occlusion by thrombus/embolus.
• Hemorrhagic stroke (13%): Vessel rupture (intracerebral or subarachnoid).

Classic Symptoms (BE FAST)

• Balance loss
• Eyes: vision changes
• Face drooping
• Arm weakness
• Speech difficulty
• Time to call 911

Emergency Treatment

• Call 911; note time of onset.
• Ischemic: IV alteplase (tPA) within 4.5 hrs; mechanical thrombectomy up to 24 hrs for large vessel occlusion.
• Hemorrhagic: BP control, reversal of anticoagulants, possible surgery.
• Rehab: PT, OT, speech therapy.

Critical Similarity

Both are time-sensitive emergencies. Every minute counts. Call emergency services immediately for suspected heart attack or stroke.