Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest: Understanding the Differences

Rising US basketball star Bronny James suffered a cardiac arrest during practice in July 2023. Cardiac arrests and heart attacks, often used interchangeably by media, are actually distinct conditions. This article clarifies their differences, causes, symptoms, and emphasizes the importance of immediate medical attention.

Rising US basketball star Bronny James collapsed on the court during a practice session in July 2023 and was immediately hospitalized. The incident, often misreported as a 'heart attack' by various media outlets, was actually a cardiac arrest. While both conditions affect the heart and require urgent medical attention, they are fundamentally different.

A heart attack, medically termed as a myocardial infarction, happens due to blockages in the coronary arteries, impairing blood flow to the heart muscle. This can injure or kill heart muscle cells. In contrast, a cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops functioning effectively as a pump, often due to electrical malfunctions within the heart.

Bronny James' cardiac arrest was linked to a congenital heart defect. Understanding these distinctions is crucial, as both conditions, despite their different causes and presentations, can lead to severe and life-threatening outcomes.

(With inputs from agencies.)