What to do if someone gets a heart attack
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Immediate Actions to Take if Someone Gets a Heart Attack
Recognizing Heart Attack Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack is crucial for timely intervention. Common symptoms include chest discomfort, pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, back, arms, or shoulders, shortness of breath, and feelings of weakness or lightheadedness . Awareness of these symptoms can significantly improve the chances of survival, as early recognition leads to quicker medical response.
Calling Emergency Services
The most critical step if someone is experiencing a heart attack is to call emergency services immediately. Dialing 9-1-1 ensures that the person receives prompt medical attention, which is vital for minimizing heart muscle damage and improving survival rates . Studies have shown that the majority of heart attack fatalities occur before the patient reaches the hospital, underscoring the importance of rapid emergency response .
Administering Nitroglycerin
If the person has a history of heart disease and has been prescribed nitroglycerin, they should take one dose immediately. If symptoms do not improve within five minutes, it is imperative to call 9-1-1 without delay. This change in guidelines aims to expedite hospital treatment and improve outcomes.
Pre-Hospital Management
While waiting for emergency services, it is important to keep the person calm and seated. If they are conscious and able to chew, administering aspirin can help by thinning the blood and potentially reducing the severity of the heart attack. However, this should only be done if the person is not allergic to aspirin and has no contraindications.
Hospital Treatment
Once at the hospital, treatments such as clot-dissolving drugs, angioplasty, and stent insertion are commonly used to restore blood flow to the heart. These treatments are most effective when administered within the first hour of symptom onset . The quicker these interventions are started, the better the chances of limiting heart muscle damage and achieving a full recovery.
Importance of Cardiac Rehabilitation
After surviving a heart attack, participating in a cardiac rehabilitation program is highly recommended. Cardiac rehab includes exercise training, education on heart-healthy living, and counseling to reduce stress. It has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of future heart attacks and improve overall survival rates.
Conclusion
In summary, recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack and taking immediate action by calling emergency services can save lives. Administering nitroglycerin if prescribed, keeping the person calm, and providing aspirin if appropriate are critical steps before reaching the hospital. Prompt medical treatment and participation in cardiac rehabilitation post-heart attack are essential for recovery and preventing future incidents. Public awareness and education on these steps are vital for improving heart attack outcomes.
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