Emergency steps to take during heart attack

A heart attack, also known as a myocardial infarction, occurs when the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a section of the heart muscle becomes blocked. If not restored quickly, the affected heart muscle can be severely damaged or even die. Prompt action during a heart attack can mean the difference between life and death. Knowing what to do in an emergency situation can save lives.

Recognizing the Symptoms

The first step in handling a heart attack is recognizing the warning signs. Common symptoms include:

Chest pain or discomfort (feeling of pressure, tightness, or squeezing)

Pain that spreads to the shoulders, arms, back, neck, or jaw

Shortness of breath

Cold sweats

Nausea or vomiting

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Unusual fatigue, especially in women


It's important to note that not everyone experiences intense chest pain. Some people may have mild discomfort or even silent heart attacks, particularly diabetics and the elderly. If you suspect someone is having a heart attack, immediate action is necessary.

Emergency Steps to Take

1. Call Emergency Services (Dial 911 or Local Emergency Number)

The very first and most crucial step is to call emergency services immediately. Do not wait more than five minutes to make the call. Even if the symptoms seem to ease, it’s essential to get medical help. Trained professionals can start treatment as soon as they arrive.

Do not attempt to drive the patient to the hospital yourself unless there is absolutely no other option. Emergency medical personnel can begin life-saving measures on the way to the hospital.

2. Keep the Person Calm and Seated

Help the person sit down and remain as calm as possible. This reduces the strain on the heart. Reassure them that help is on the way and try to keep them still. Avoid walking, running, or any movement that increases heart rate.

If the person is unconscious but breathing, lay them on their side in the recovery position while waiting for help.

3. Loosen Tight Clothing

Loosen any tight clothing, such as a tie, collar, or belt, to make breathing easier. This can also help the person feel more comfortable.

4. Give Aspirin if Available and Appropriate

If the person is not allergic to aspirin and is conscious and able to chew and swallow, give them one adult aspirin (325 mg) or four low-dose baby aspirins (81 mg each). Aspirin helps to thin the blood and reduce damage to the heart by improving blood flow through narrowed arteries.

Make sure the person chews the aspirin, not swallows it whole, for faster absorption.

5. Use Nitroglycerin if Prescribed

If the person has been prescribed nitroglycerin for chest pain (angina), assist them in taking it. Nitroglycerin helps to widen the blood vessels and improve blood flow to the heart. However, do not give nitroglycerin if it hasn't been prescribed to the person, as it can be dangerous.

6. Be Prepared to Perform CPR

If the person becomes unresponsive and stops breathing, begin CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) immediately. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of about 100-120 compressions per minute. If you're trained, provide rescue breaths after every 30 compressions. If not, hands-only CPR can still be effective.

Keep performing CPR until emergency medical help arrives or the person starts to breathe again.

7. Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) if Available

If you are in a public place, look for an AED and follow the instructions provided. AEDs are user-friendly devices that can check the heart’s rhythm and deliver an electric shock to help re-establish an effective rhythm.

Time is critical each minute without defibrillation reduces the chance of survival by 7-10%.

What Not to Do

Do not delay calling for help.

Do not let the person eat or drink unless advised by a healthcare provider.

Do not give unprescribed medications.

Do not leave the person alone unless it’s absolutely necessary to call for help.


Conclusion

Heart attacks are life-threatening medical emergencies. Recognizing the symptoms early and taking swift action can significantly increase the chances of survival and recovery. Educate yourself and others about the symptoms and emergency procedures so that you can respond effectively if faced with such a critical situation.

Being prepared, staying calm, and acting quickly are the keys to saving a life. Encourage your family and workplace to learn CPR and first aid, and always know the location of the nearest AED in public areas.