August 9, 2023
If you have a history of cardiovascular disease or are worried about your heart health, it can be overwhelming to learn about all the possible conditions and terms associated with cardiovascular health. Two of these terms that often get confused are congestive heart failure (CHF) and heart attack. But what are the differences of heart failure vs. heart attack? While both can threaten your cardiac health, they differ in how they occur and in symptoms, treatments, and outcomes. Let’s take a closer look at these terms and the differences between them.
Congestive heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, leading to a buildup of fluid in the lungs and other parts of the body. This condition can affect people of all ages. But, it is more common in older individuals and those with a history of heart disease. In fact, the Heart Failure Society of America estimates that nearly 6.5 million Americans over 20 years old have experienced heart failure.
Other risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and sleep apnea. Heart defects can also increase your risk of heart failure.
Recognizing the symptoms of CHF is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention. Common symptoms include:
In addition to recognizing the symptoms of congestive heart failure, make sure to understand the condition’s four stages.
To diagnose CHF, our experienced cardiologists at Cardiovascular Institute of the South use a combination of medical history reviews, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests, such as:
In addition to these tests, your physician may utilize remote cardiac monitoring for testing and early detection. These convenient wearable devices can remotely gather information about your cardiac health to share with your physician.
While some risk factors for CHF cannot be controlled, such as age and family history, patients can adopt lifestyle changes to reduce their risk or manage the condition.
According to the CDC, 805,000 people in the United States experience a heart attack each year. A heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction, occurs when there is a sudden blockage in one of the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. This condition is a medical emergency. Without prompt medical attention, a heart attack can cause permanent damage to the heart muscle or worse—a loss of life.
Knowing the symptoms of a heart attack can be life-saving. There are some overlapping symptoms of congestive heart failure vs. heart attack, like rapid heart rate and shortness of breath. However, there are a few common signs of heart attack that set it apart:
Additional subtle heart attack or disease symptoms occur in women, such as upper body pain in the neck, jaw, back, and arms.
If you or a loved one is experiencing heart attack symptoms, call 911 and seek immediate medical assistance.
When a heart attack is suspected, quick diagnosis and intervention are crucial. The diagnostic process may involve:
If your physician determines that you have had or are at risk for a heart attack, they may prescribe medications such as aspirin, clot busters, or blood thinners to help prevent blockages. Coronary surgeries and cardiac rehabilitation may also be considered for your treatment plan.
Preventing a heart attack involves managing risk factors and adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle.
Understanding the difference between congestive heart failure vs. heart attack is crucial for recognizing the symptoms and seeking timely medical attention. If you or a loved one have a history of heart disease or any concerns about heart health, reach out to Cardiovascular Institute of the South. Our team of skilled cardiologists is dedicated to providing cutting-edge cardiovascular care to communities across Louisiana and Mississippi. Call to schedule an appointment at your nearest location or request an appointment online to take charge of your heart health and well-being. With early detection and proper management, you can prevent heart attack and congestive heart failure.