Heart attack vs. stroke: Cardiologist Dr Nicole Harkin explains why heart-healthy habits also protect your brain health

Cardiologist Dr Nicole Harkin explains heart attack involves decreased blood flow to the heart due to a blockage, often from atherosclerosis.

A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked by a clot or a ruptured blood vessel.

Both conditions are life-threatening emergencies but differ in where the blood flow is blocked.

Heart-healthy habits protect both heart and brain health by addressing shared risk factors.

Recognizing the difference between a heart attack and a stroke can help seek timely treatment and save a life.