If you suspect someone (or yourself) is having a heart attack, every second counts. Here’s what to do immediately:
1. Call emergency services immediately
- Dial 911 (or your local emergency number) right away.
- Don’t try to drive yourself to the hospital unless absolutely necessary. Paramedics can start life-saving treatment on the way.
2. Chew aspirin if advised
- If you’re not allergic and a doctor hasn’t told you otherwise, chew one regular-strength (325 mg) aspirin.
- Chewing works faster than swallowing whole. It can help slow blood clotting and improve survival odds.
3. Stay calm and rest
- Sit or lie down while waiting for help.
- Avoid physical exertion, which can worsen heart damage.
4. If the person loses consciousness
- Begin CPR immediately:
- Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (about 100–120 compressions per minute).
- Allow full chest recoil between compressions.
- If trained, use an AED (automated external defibrillator) if available.
5. Keep monitoring
- Keep checking pulse and breathing until help arrives.
- Loosen tight clothing and make the person as comfortable as possible.
⏱ Key point: Every minute without treatment increases heart damage. Calling emergency services immediately is the single most important action.
If you want, I can give a super quick “60-second checklist” you could memorize—it could literally save your life. Do you want me to do that?