How to Help a Loved One During a Heart Attack

The warning signs of a heart attack are not universal, but the one thing that is important in every instance is the need for quick action. A heart attack occurs when the heart isn’t receiving enough oxygen. The most common symptom of a heart attack is chest pain, but other symptoms include nausea, sweatiness, arm or back pain, and fatigue. If a loved one is exhibiting any of these signs, here is what you need to do immediately for a heart attack.

Call 911

If you suspect that someone is having a heart attack, call 911 immediately. Don’t wait for symptoms to lessen or disappear and never drive the patient to the hospital yourself. They will get the quickest treatment through an emergency response team, who will also know what hospital is best equipped to handle the emergency at any given time.

Recline the Patient

Loosen your loved one’s clothing to help circulation and lie them down wherever they are at the time.

Stay Calm

Anxiety can worsen the symptoms of a heart attack, so it’s important that everyone remain as calm as possible during an emergency. Take deep breaths and remind the patient, and yourself, that help is on the way.

CPR

If the patient stops breathing or has gone into cardiac arrest, you may need to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This isn’t needed in every case, but it should become evident if the patient passes out and is no longer responsive.

Helping a loved one during a heart attack can be a frightening prospect and one that you’ll want to be as prepared as possible for. If a member of your family is experiencing a heart attack immediately seek treatment at your nearest emergency room.