Tiku Talsania, the veteran actor best known for his roles in legendary films like Andaz Apna Apna, is in critical condition after suffering a stroke. Initial reports claimed that a a heart attackhowever, his family corrected the facts. A recent event sparked curiosity about the differences between a cerebral stroke and heart attack, two critical illnesses that require immediate medical attention but have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Here’s everything you need to know about their differences.
What is a stroke? What is a heart attack?
Stroke: A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, according to the US CDC. This may be due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or bleeding (hemorrhagic stroke). Without enough oxygen, brain cells begin to die.
Heart attack: According to NHS UK, a heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, usually by a clot. This results in damage to the heart muscles as they experience a lack of oxygen.
The difference between a stroke and a heart attack
Area of damage:
A stroke affects the brain, affecting movement, speech and thinking.
A heart attack damages the heart, potentially affecting its pumping ability.
Reason:
Stroke: Blockage or bleeding in the arteries of the brain.
Heart attack: A blockage in the arteries that supply the heart.
Symptoms:
Stroke symptoms: Sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body), trouble speaking, trouble seeing, dizziness, and a severe headache.
Symptoms of a heart attack: Chest pain or discomfort (may feel like tightness), shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, and arm, jaw, or back pain.
Symptoms to look out for
Early recognition of symptoms can save lives.
Warning signs of a stroke (use FAST):
– Saggy face: one side of the face is uneven?
– Arm weakness: Can the person raise both arms?
– Speech difficulties: are words slurred or difficult to understand?
– Time to call: Call 911 immediately if you experience these symptoms.
Warning signs of a heart attack:
– Shyness or pain in the chest, often spreading to the left arm.
– Sweating and shortness of breath.
– Feeling dizzy or faint.
What to do?
For stroke:
Call an ambulance immediately.
If the person is conscious, keep them calm and do not give them food or drink.
Pay attention to when symptoms appear – this helps doctors decide on treatment, such as drugs that dissolve blood clots.
With a heart attack:
Call emergency services immediately.
If the person is conscious, give them aspirin (unless they are allergic) to prevent further clotting.
Keep them calm and seated, and monitor their breathing.
