How to Save a Life - Warning signs of a Heart Attack and what to do
It is important that you know the signs of a heart attack and what to do
if this occurs. The first step is to create a plan and go over the plan
with your family, co-workers, friends, and your doctor. After your plan
is in place, it is advisable that you practice and rehearse the plan. It
is important that you don't delay and you act fast if you or a loved one
is experiencing a heart attack. You should not delay in calling 911.
Even if a friend or family member ends up driving you to the hospital,
it is still important that you also call 911. If you are experiencing
pain that persists, do not ignore it and just hope it goes away. The
longer you wait, the greater the risk that you will suffer permanent
damage or possibly even die. In many cases, your chances of survival
will increase greatly if you receive proper treatment within 1 - 2 hours
of the when the heat attack first started. Statistics show that those
who arrive at the emergency room by ambulance get quicker treatment than
those who get to the hospital on their own. Ambulance vehicles are
equipped to handle emergencies and will get you started with the
treatment you need sooner.
What are some other tips if you or a loved one have begun suffering from
a heart attack?
1. Take an aspirin - After you have called 911, the victim should chew
an aspirin. By doing this, it will hopefully prevent other clots from
occurring. It is better that you chew the aspirin instead of swallowing
it whole because the chewing will get the aspirin in the bloodstream
quicker.
2. Depending on your situation, nitroglycerin can be used. If you have
experienced a heart attack in the past, your doctor may prescribe
nitroglycerin for you in case of future heart attacks.
3. Before a heart attack occurs, you need to make sure you know the
location of the closest hospital that provides emergency care 24 hours a
day. Ideally, your doctor has already given you your resting ECG form.
If you have to go to the emergency room, give a copy of this paperwork
to the doctors in the emergency room. This will help them treat you and
give you faster treatment that is appropriate for you. |
