If you suspect you’re having a heart attack, the first thing to do is call for help. This could be calling an ambulance or asking someone nearby to assist you. If you’re alone, call emergency services immediately. In many places, this is 911 or 192 in Brazil.
You might think, “Shouldn’t I just drive myself to the hospital?” The answer is no. Driving can be dangerous, especially if you lose consciousness or become too weak to drive safely.
👉Why Calling for Help is Crucial
Time is of the essence: The sooner you get medical help, the better your chances of survival. Heart muscle can start to die within minutes without oxygen.
Emergency responders are trained: They can provide immediate care and transport you safely to the hospital.
➡️While You Wait for Help
While waiting for help to arrive, it’s important to stay as calm as possible. Here’s what you can do:
Sit or Lie Down: Find a comfortable position that eases the pressure on your heart. Lean back and elevate your head slightly if possible.
Breathe Slowly: Focus on your breathing. Try to take slow, deep breaths to help manage anxiety and conserve energy.
Avoid Physical Activity: Don’t try to move around or exert yourself. Every movement puts more strain on your heart.
➡️Taking Aspirin
If you have access to aspirin and you’re not allergic, consider taking it. Here’s how:
Chew the Aspirin: Chewing it allows for faster absorption into your bloodstream. Aim for 2-3 low-dose (81 mg) aspirin.
Why Aspirin?: It helps thin the blood and can reduce the size of the blood clot that’s blocking blood flow to your heart.
➡️Misconceptions About Coughing
You may have heard that coughing can help during a heart attack. This is a myth. Coughing does not help to dislodge a blockage in your arteries. If you’re conscious and able to cough, it means your heart is still beating, and you should focus on getting help rather than trying to cough your way through it.
➡️What If You Find Someone Unconscious?
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