What are the difference between heart attack and a stroke?

Heart attack and stroke are both medical emergencies that can have life-threatening consequences, but they are caused by different underlying conditions and affect different parts of the body.

Heart Attack

* A heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, usually due to a buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries. This plaque can rupture and form a blood clot, which can completely block the artery and prevent blood from reaching the heart muscle.

* Symptoms of a heart attack can include:

* Chest pain or pressure

* Shortness of breath

* Pain in the arms, neck, back, or jaw

* Nausea or vomiting

* Lightheadedness or dizziness

* Sweating

* Treatment for a heart attack typically involves medications to dissolve the blood clot and restore blood flow to the heart, as well as lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of future heart attacks.

Stroke

* A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced, either due to a blockage in an artery or a rupture of an artery. This can cause brain cells to die and can lead to lasting damage to brain function.

* Symptoms of a stroke can include:

* Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body

* Difficulty speaking or understanding speech

* Vision problems

* Dizziness or loss of balance

* Confusion or memory loss

* Treatment for a stroke typically involves medications to dissolve the blood clot or stop the bleeding, as well as rehabilitation therapy to help restore brain function.

It is important to seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, as early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of a full recovery.