Here’s a clear, evidence-based guide for what to do if someone is having a heart attack. Seconds truly matter, so rapid action is crucial:
Immediate Steps to Take (First 1–2 Minutes)
1. Call Emergency Services Immediately
- Dial your local emergency number (e.g., 911 in the U.S.) without delay.
- Do not try to drive yourself to the hospital—paramedics can start life-saving care en route.
2. Chew an Aspirin (If Not Allergic)
- If available and safe (no allergy, not on blood thinners), chew 1 regular-dose aspirin (325 mg).
- This helps prevent blood clots from worsening the heart attack.
3. Stay Calm and Rest
- Sit or lie down while waiting for help.
- Avoid unnecessary movement or exertion to reduce strain on the heart.
4. Use Nitroglycerin if Prescribed
- Only if the person has nitroglycerin prescribed for angina, follow their usual instructions.
5. Be Ready for CPR
- If the person becomes unconscious or stops breathing, start CPR immediately:
- Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (~100–120 compressions per minute)
- Allow full chest recoil between compressions
- Use hands-only CPR if not trained in rescue breaths
⚠️ Key Points
- Every minute counts: The sooner medical help arrives, the higher the chance of survival.
- Common warning signs include: chest pain/pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, or pain radiating to arm/jaw/back.
- Do not ignore mild symptoms, especially in women and older adults, as heart attacks can present differently.
If you want, I can make a step-by-step visual “heart attack emergency checklist” that shows exactly what to do in the first seconds, so it’s easy to remember and act fast.
Do you want me to do that?
