What to do if you are having a heart attack

What to do if you are having a heart attack
Warning signs of a heart attack and what to do if you are having one
You may be having a heart attack if you

2. Have a sore muscle in your chest or upper back

3. Have an ache in your jaw, arms or upper back

4. Feel very tired

5. Have indigestion

Acting quickly when you suspect a heart attack is coming on can greatly improve your chances for survival. Here’s what to keep in mind

1. Do not ignore warning signs such as extreme fatigue, chest pain, breathlessness, dizziness or pain in your arms.

2. Do not drive, call an ambulance or get someone nearby to drive you. It is important to get to the hospital as soon as possible so that blood flow to the heart can be restored and damage to the muscle minimised.

3. If the person is alert and breathing, then there is no need for CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation; it is better to rush the person to the hospital instead.

4. CPR should be given if the person is unconscious. Call an ambulance too, in the meantime. CPR uses rhythmic chest compressions to mimic how the heart pumps, and keep the blood flowing.

5. To prevent blood clots, take aspirin (which is available under the brand names of Ecosprin, Sprin, Aspro, Eprin and Delisprin). Painkillers too can be given for chest pain. If you can call a doctor, take further advice based directly on the situation.