What is a heart attack?

A heart attack (medical name: myocardial infarction) happens when the blood flow to a part of the heart is completely blocked. This blockage usually occurs in the coronary arteries (the blood vessels that supply the heart). Because of this blockage, the heart muscle does not get enough oxygen and blood. If the blockage lasts too long, that part of the heart muscle gets damaged or can even die.

Severity

  • Small area (5–10%) - mild heart attack, most people recover.
  • Large area (30–40% or more) - major heart attack, can be very dangerous or even life-threatening without urgent treatment.

Common symptoms

Chest pain/Angina or pressure (feels like heaviness, tightness, or squeezing) on exertion, it increases and may or may not subside at rest
Pain may spread to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back
Shortness of breath on exertion
Sweating, nausea, or vomiting
Extreme tiredness or weakness
Feeling dizzy or faint

Note: Not everyone has the same symptoms. Some people, especially women and diabetics, may have silent or mild heart attacks with unusual symptoms like indigestion, fatigue, or back pain.

What to do if you suspect a heart attack

  1. Call emergency services immediately a heart attack is a medical emergency.
  2. Chew aspirin if recommended by emergency services and if not allergic (helps slow clotting).
  3. Stay calm, rest; do not drive yourself to hospital if an ambulance is available.

What is Heart Failure?

Heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently to meet the body’s needs. It does not mean the heart has stopped working, but rather that it is weaker than normal. People diagnosed with heart failure often experience fatigue, breathlessness, swelling in the legs, and difficulty with daily activities.

Modern heart failure treatment includes lifestyle modifications, medicines for the heart, advanced therapies, and, in some cases, heart failure medical procedures such as EECP or device implantation.

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a more specific type of right heart failure where fluid builds up (congestion) in the lungs, liver, abdomen, and legs due to the heart’s reduced pumping capacity.

  • Shortness of breath (especially when lying flat or at night)
  • Swelling in the ankles, legs, or abdomen
  • Sudden weight gain due to fluid retention
  • Persistent cough or wheezing
  • Fatigue and weakness

If untreated, end-stage congestive heart failure can severely impact quality of life. That’s why CHF management through medicines, lifestyle changes, and therapies like EECP is crucial.

heart-attack

Heart Failure vs. Heart Attack - Key Differences

AspectHeart Failure (incl. CHF)Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)
DefinitionA chronic condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectivelyA sudden blockage in a coronary artery causing damage to heart muscle
CausesHigh blood pressure, coronary artery disease, valve disease, diabetes, lifestyle factorsPlaque rupture, blood clot, or severe narrowing of coronary arteries
OnsetGradual - months or yearsSudden - medical emergency
SymptomsFatigue, swelling, shortness of breath, fluid retentionChest pain/pressure, sweating, nausea, shortness of breath
TreatmentOngoing medicines, lifestyle modification, specialist care, EECP or device therapy in selected patientsEmergency angioplasty, stent, bypass surgery, clot-dissolving medicines; later cardiac rehab
Long-term careRequires regular CHF management and specialist follow-upAfter recovery: cardiac rehabilitation and risk-factor control to prevent recurrence

Causes of Heart Failure

  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure
  • Coronary artery disease and previous heart attacks
  • Heart valve disease
  • Diabetes and obesity
  • Unhealthy lifestyle: smoking, alcohol, high-fat diet

Early Signs of Heart Failure You Shouldn't Ignore

  • Shortness of breath on mild exertion
  • Swelling in the legs and ankles
  • Persistent fatigue
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Sudden weight gain (fluid retention)

Recognising early signs and consulting a heart failure specialist can prevent progression to chronic or end-stage heart failure.