What to Do During a Heart Attack: Life-Saving Steps Every American Should Know

Heart attacks, medically known as myocardial infarctions, are one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Every year, hundreds of thousands of Americans experience a heart attack, and immediate action can mean the difference between life and death.

Knowing what to do during a heart attack can save your life or the life of someone near you. Acting fast is critical because the longer the heart muscle is deprived of oxygen-rich blood, the greater the damage.

---

1. Recognize the Signs of a Heart Attack

Before you can take action, you must recognize the warning signs. Heart attack symptoms can vary, especially between men and women.

Common signs include:

• Chest pain or pressure (tightness, squeezing, or heaviness)

• Pain radiating to the arm, neck, jaw, or back

• Shortness of breath

• Nausea, vomiting, or lightheadedness

• Cold sweat

• Fatigue or sudden weakness

Women may experience atypical symptoms, such as jaw pain, nausea, or extreme fatigue, without the classic chest pressure.

---

2. Call 911 Immediately

If you suspect a heart attack:

• Do not wait

• Call 911 immediately

Even if symptoms seem mild, professional help is essential. Emergency responders can begin life-saving treatment before reaching the hospital.

Time is critical: for every minute a blocked artery remains untreated, more heart muscle is damaged.

---

3. Chew Aspirin (If Advised by Doctor)

If you have no allergy to aspirin and it is readily available:

• Take one regular-strength aspirin (325 mg) or two low-dose (81 mg) tablets

• Chew the aspirin slowly — it helps thin the blood and may reduce the severity of the heart attack

Do not delay calling 911 to take aspirin. Calling for help always comes first.

---

4. Stay Calm and Rest

Stress and panic increase heart workload. Sit down and try to remain calm.

• Avoid unnecessary movement

• Sit upright (not lying flat) to reduce strain on the heart

• Loosen tight clothing

Remaining calm helps prevent further stress on the heart.

---

5. Take Prescribed Heart Medications

If you have heart disease or angina, take any medications prescribed for chest pain, such as nitroglycerin.

Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, and keep medications accessible.

---

6. Avoid Driving Yourself to the Hospital

Never try to drive yourself during a suspected heart attack.

• Call 911 or have someone drive you.

• Paramedics provide emergency treatment en route that can be life-saving.

---

7. Perform CPR If Someone Collapses

If the person experiencing a heart attack loses consciousness and is not breathing:

1. Call 911 immediately

2. Begin chest compressions: 100–120 compressions per minute, pushing about 2 inches deep in the center of the chest

3. If trained, provide rescue breaths: 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths

Prompt CPR can double or triple survival chances until medical help arrives.

---

8. Use an AED If Available

An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can be used if the person becomes unresponsive.

• Turn it on and follow voice instructions

• Attach pads to the chest

• Deliver shock if advised

AEDs are commonly found in public places like malls, airports, and offices.

---

9. Avoid Food and Drink

Do not eat or drink anything during a heart attack unless prescribed.

Swallowing can be dangerous if emergency procedures or medications are needed.

---

10. Follow Up After Emergency Care

After surviving a heart attack, follow-up care is essential.

• Take medications as prescribed (blood thinners, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors)

• Make lifestyle changes (heart-healthy diet, exercise, quitting smoking)

• Attend cardiac rehabilitation programs if recommended

Early intervention and long-term care dramatically improve survival and quality of life.

---

Key Takeaways

Heart attacks are emergencies. Every second counts.

Remember these critical steps:

1. Recognize symptoms

2. Call 911 immediately

3. Chew aspirin if safe

4. Stay calm and sit down

5. Take prescribed medications

6. Avoid driving yourself

7. Perform CPR if needed

8. Use AED if available

9. Avoid food or drink

10. Follow up with proper care

By knowing what to do during a heart attack, you can save your life or the life of someone you love. Awareness, preparation, and prompt action are the best defenses against this silent killer.