Heart Stroke vs. Heart Attack Explained
Understand the key differences between a heart stroke and a heart attack, including causes, symptoms, and treatments. Learn how to identify each and take prompt action.
Written by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 20th Aug, 2025
Heart-related conditions can be scary, especially when terms like heart stroke and heart attack are used interchangeably. However, these are two different medical emergencies that require immediate attention. Understanding the difference can help you recognise symptoms early and seek timely treatment.
What Is a Heart Attack?
A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually due to a clot in a coronary artery. Without oxygen-rich blood, the heart muscle begins to die.
Symptoms of a Heart Attack
Chest pain or discomfort (pressure, squeezing, heaviness)
Pain spreading to the arm, shoulder, neck, jaw, or back
Shortness of breath
Cold sweat, nausea, or dizziness
Fatigue or weakness (especially in women)
What Causes a Heart Attack?
Blocked arteries (due to cholesterol buildup or blood clots)
High blood pressure
Smoking, diabetes, obesity
Family history of heart disease
How Does It Affect Your Health?
If not treated quickly, a heart attack can cause permanent heart damage or even be fatal. Early medical intervention can save lives.
What Is a Heart Stroke?
A heart stroke (or cardiac stroke) is a less common term, but it usually refers to a stroke caused by a heart condition. More accurately, a stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either by a clot (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).
Symptoms of a Stroke (FAST Method)
Face drooping (one side)
Arm weakness (can’t raise both arms evenly)
Speech difficulty (slurred or confused words)
Time to call emergency services immediately
What Causes a Stroke?
Atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) leading to clots
High blood pressure weakening blood vessels
Diabetes, smoking, high cholesterol
Previous heart conditions
How Does It Affect Your Health?
A stroke can lead to brain damage, paralysis, speech problems, or even death if not treated quickly.
Consult Top Specialists
Key Differences Between Heart Attack and Stroke
| Feature | Heart Attack | Stroke |
| Affected Organ | Heart | Brain |
| Primary Cause | Blocked artery supplying the heart | Blocked or ruptured artery in the brain |
| Common Symptoms | Chest pain, shortness of breath, arm/jaw pain | Face drooping, slurred speech, limb weakness |
| Emergency Response | Seek immediate medical help (call emergency services) | Seek immediate medical help (call emergency services) |
What Should You Do in an Emergency?
Both conditions are life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
1. Call emergency services (Dial 108 in India or your local emergency number).
2. Do NOT drive yourself—wait for an ambulance.
3. Chew an aspirin (if advised for heart attack, but confirm with a doctor).
4. Stay calm and keep the person still.
How to Reduce Your Risk?
1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
More fruits, vegetables, whole grains
Less salt, sugar, fried foods
Healthy fats like nuts, fish, olive oil
2. Stay Active
30 minutes of walking daily
Avoid sitting for long hours
3. Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol
Smoking damages blood vessels
Excessive alcohol raises blood pressure
4. Manage Stress & Sleep Well
Practice deep breathing, yoga, meditation
Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep
5. Regular Health Checkups
Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar
Get an ECG, echocardiogram if at risk
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience any warning signs (chest pain, sudden weakness, speech issues), don’t ignore them. Early treatment saves lives.
Apollo 24|7 offers expert cardiology consultations and tests. You can:
Book a heart health checkup
Consult a cardiologist online
Schedule an ECG or lipid profile test
Conclusion
Both heart attacks and strokes are serious but preventable with the right lifestyle choices. Knowing the symptoms and acting fast can make all the difference.
Would you like personalised advice? Talk to an Apollo doctor today!
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Anand Ravi
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Tripti Deb
Cardiologist
40 Years • MBBS, MD, DM, FACC, FESC
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
Dr Moytree Baruah
Cardiologist
10 Years • MBBS, PGDCC
Guwahati
Apollo Clinic Guwahati, Assam, Guwahati
Dr. Zulkarnain
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS, PGDM, FFM
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr K.n Reddy
Cardiologist
45 Years • MBBS,SVMIS,DM-CMC,MD
Chennai
Apollo Speciality Hospitals Vanagaram, Chennai
(175+ Patients)
