Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. If you or someone you know is having a heart attack, Raj Chandwaney, M.D., an interventional cardiologist with Oklahoma Heart Institute, shares what you need to know.
What to do:
• Call 911 immediately.
• While waiting for an ambulance, you can chew or swallow four baby aspirin or one adult aspirin.
What not to do:
• Wait out symptoms. The heart muscle suffers damage as time progresses during a heart attack. Time is muscle and every minute counts.
• Drive yourself or have someone drive you to the hospital. EMS personnel can transport patients to the hospital more quickly and safely.
Symptoms of heart attack:
• Chest pain described as a pressure or tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea and cold sweat
• Note: Symptoms can vary. Women are more likely to experience atypical symptoms during a heart attack than men.
If you experience any of these symptoms, or are around someone who is, please call 911 immediately.