If you suspect you’re having a heart attack, the first thing you should do is call for help . You can call an ambulance or ask someone nearby for help. If you’re alone, call 911 immediately. In many places in Brazil, the emergency numbers are 911 or 192.
You might think, “Shouldn’t I just go to the hospital?” The answer is no . Driving can be dangerous, especially if you lose consciousness or become too weak to drive safely.
👉Why it’s important to ask for help
- Time is of the essence : the sooner you get medical help, the better your chances of survival. Heart muscle can begin to die within minutes without oxygen.
- Emergency personnel are trained to provide immediate assistance and safely transport the patient to hospital.
➡️While waiting for help
While waiting for help, it’s important to remain as calm as possible. Here’s what you can do:
- Sit or lie down : Find a comfortable position that takes the strain off your heart. If possible, lean back and slightly raise your head.
- Breathe slowly : Focus on your breathing. Try to take slow, deep breaths to manage anxiety and conserve energy.
- Avoid physical activity : Try not to move or exert yourself too much. Any movement puts a strain on your heart.
➡️This aspirin
If you have access to aspirin and aren’t allergic to it, consider it. Here’s how:
- Chew aspirin : Chewing speeds up absorption into the bloodstream. It is recommended to take 2–3 low-dose (81 mg) aspirin tablets.
- Why use aspirin: It helps thin the blood and may reduce the size of blood clots that block blood flow to the heart.
➡️Misconceptions about coughing
You may have heard that coughing can help prevent a heart attack. This is a myth . Coughing won’t help dissolve clots 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 instead of trying to clear it.
