Heart attacks happen to many people. Although there are several measures people may take to lessen the likelihood of having one, it is impossible to prevent them entirely.
The natural response to a heart attack in a crowded public place would be to cry out for help. But what if you are home alone and have a heart attack? Well, here are some things you should do.
Be brave to call emergency services
The first thing you should do if you have a heart attack is to call for emergency medical care, regardless of whether you are alone or with people. You need specialist therapy that can be sent to you without delay.
The chances of survival after a heart attack are better for those who get medical help quickly. Even if you are not convinced you are experiencing a heart attack, you should still contact emergency services.
Seek out family or friend
Get on the phone again and ask a reliable neighbour or relative to meet you right away if they live in the area. If you have a sudden cardiac arrest, it might be useful to have someone else nearby.
It is important to keep your words brief so that you do not overexert yourself, or take too many breaths. They may be able to call for help quicker if they show up.
Photo: Collected / jesse orrico / Unsplash
Delay the effects with medicine (if prescribed)
Unless you have a negative reaction to aspirin, it is safe to take one after contacting emergency services if you are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack. By stopping blood clots from forming, aspirin can lessen the damage to the heart during a heart attack.
On the other hand, aspirin's negative effects might include bleeding from the stomach. Keep in mind that aspirin is just a temporary solution. During a heart attack, it will not be sufficient to prevent death. Therefore, for certainty, see a doctor.
Might be tough, but remain calm
Although it may be difficult to maintain calm in the face of such a potentially fatal situation, it is advised that people do their best to do so while they wait for help. The strain on the heart may be reduced in this way.
Depending on your comfort, you may sit on a soft surface or the floor. If you have trouble breathing during a heart attack, try removing any tight clothes, including belts or ties. Breathe deeply and slowly; try not to cough too much; and relax as much as you can.
Breathe deep and steady
Taking calm, deep breaths is the greatest approach to keep your blood and heart supplied with oxygen, even if your natural tendency may be to breathe quickly during a heart attack.
It could help to lie near a source of natural light and a fan, air conditioner, open door, or window. Your heart can get more oxygen if you expose yourself to a constant flow of fresh air.
Heart attack symptoms should be treated within one hour. Your heart will have a harder time regenerating the damaged cardiac muscle cells if you wait any longer than that. Ideally, the restricted artery should open within 90 minutes to minimise harm.
You should also see your doctor about ways to lower your risk of developing other cardiac conditions by changing your food, exercise routine, rehabilitation, sleep habits, and any more aspects of your daily life.