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The moments following the onset of a heart attack can be critical, especially if you are alone. Knowing how to react quickly and effectively can significantly increase your chances of survival. A leading cardiovascular surgeon is now sharing vital steps to accept when facing this life-threatening emergency without immediate assistance.
Dr. Jeremy London, a board-certified US heart surgeon with over 25 years of experience, emphasizes that swift action is paramount. While many factors contribute to heart health, understanding what to do in the initial stages of a heart attack can be the difference between life and death. His guidance focuses on simple, actionable steps that anyone can remember, even when experiencing the intense stress of a cardiac event.
The first, and arguably most important, step is to call emergency services immediately. According to Dr. London, delaying this crucial call can drastically reduce the effectiveness of treatment. He stresses that time is muscle, meaning the longer the heart is deprived of oxygen, the more damage occurs. The American Heart Association reports that approximately every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a heart attack https://www.heart.org/en/about-us/heart-attack-statistics.
Alongside calling for help, Dr. London recommends chewing an aspirin. While it won’t prevent a heart attack, chewing – rather than swallowing – an aspirin can help to reduce its severity. The chewed aspirin is absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream, providing a faster effect. This is because chewing bypasses the digestive process, allowing the active ingredient, acetylsalicylic acid, to enter the circulation more rapidly.
Preparing for Emergency Responders
Beyond initiating medical assistance and taking aspirin, Dr. London advises taking steps to develop it easier for emergency responders to locate and assist you. If it’s dark, turn on lights both inside your home and on the porch. This simple act can significantly reduce response time.
To prevent further injury, it’s crucial to avoid movement. Dr. London recommends sitting or lying down to minimize the risk of falling and potentially worsening the situation, especially if you lose consciousness.
The Power of Connection
Another critical step is to contact a friend or family member and remain on the phone with them until help arrives. This provides a vital link to the outside world, allowing someone to relay information to emergency personnel and offer reassurance. Having a voice on the line can also help you stay calm and focused during a frightening experience.
Understanding Heart Attack Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of a heart attack is equally important. While chest pain is the most well-known symptom, it’s not always present or may manifest differently in women. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach, and cold sweats. Dr. London himself experienced a near-fatal heart attack after initially dismissing symptoms he attributed to acid reflux, as reported by the Times of India. This highlights the importance of paying attention to even subtle changes in your body.
Prevention and Long-Term Heart Health
While knowing what to do during a heart attack is crucial, preventative measures are equally important. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking, can significantly reduce your risk. Dr. London, who nearly lost his own life to a heart attack despite his medical expertise, emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and proactive health management. He urges individuals to avoid smoking, which he describes as the “#1 heart enemy,” and to be mindful of hidden heart stressors like excess sugar and processed foods.
Looking ahead, continued research and public health initiatives are vital to improving heart attack survival rates. Increased awareness of symptoms, coupled with rapid access to emergency care, will remain key factors in combating this leading cause of death.
What steps will you take today to prioritize your heart health? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and please share this article with your loved ones – it could save a life.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.
