HEART ATTACK: LIFESAVING STEPS YOU CAN TAKE

WHAT ARE THE COMMON SIGNS OF A HEART ATTACK?

symptoms include:

• Chest pain, characterized by sensations like pressure, discomfort, tightness, sharp pain, burning, or heaviness in the chest.
• Discomfort or pain that extends to the neck, jaw, shoulder, back, or either arm, sometimes affecting both arms.
• Nausea.
• Shortness of breath.
• Dizziness.

It’s important to note that the symptoms of a heart attack can differ in women. Women may experience multiple symptoms, often without the typical chest pain. They may also feel discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen or lower chest, which could be mistaken for heartburn rather than recognized as a symptom of a heart attack.

As a result, women might delay seeking medical attention, increasing their risk of serious heart damage or even death due to a heart attack.

BEING ORGANIZED CAN HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT

If you have cardiovascular disease, follow your treatment carefully
If you have cardiovascular disease or have had a heart attack in the past, it is important that you take all of your medicine exactly as prescribed. If you have any questions about your treatment, don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist.

If you have been prescribed nitroglycerin (e.g., for angina), keep it with you at all times.

Keep acetylsalicylic (ASA) on hand
Taking acetylsalicylic acid (also called ASA or aspirin) is generally recommended for heart attack symptoms, but you need to have some with you! ASA isn’t right for everyone, so be sure to discuss it with your healthcare provider at your next visit.

Because you need to chew ASA to absorb it more quickly if you’re having a heart attack, you can buy chewable tablets, but regular tablets work just as well. To reduce waste, buy only small sizes, because if all goes well, your bottle will still be full when the expiration date is reached!

Keep a list of your medication
Your medication list is valuable information for emergency personnel, as the medications you take can affect the best course of treatment in a medical emergency.

Keep a copy in your wallet and in an easily accessible place in your home. Remember to ask the pharmacy staff for a new list if your treatment changes.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE HEART ATTACK SYMPTOMS

In the event of a heart attack, taking swift action can significantly improve your chances of survival and minimize heart damage. Here are the key steps you can take:

• Call 911 Immediately:
  • Seek medical assistance without delay. Even if you’re uncertain about your symptoms, calling 911 is the best course of action.
  • Do not attempt to drive yourself to the hospital. Paramedics are equipped to provide immediate treatment, and they carry essential equipment like defibrillators in case your condition worsens.
• Take Nitroglycerin if Prescribed:
  • If you’ve been prescribed nitroglycerin, take one dose as recommended.
• Chew and Swallow Aspirin (ASA):
  • If your doctor or a healthcare professional has advised or the 911 operator suggests, chew and swallow one regular 325 mg ASA (aspirin) tablet or two 80 mg or 81 mg ASA tablets.
  • Inform the emergency responders that you have already taken this medication.
• Cease All Activity:
  • Try to remain calm, sit, or lie down comfortably while awaiting medical help.

Preparedness can be a critical factor during a heart attack. CPR training is a valuable addition to this readiness, enabling you to assist others if they experience a complete cessation of heart function (known as cardiac arrest).

If you have any questions regarding how to respond to a heart attack or concerns about your heart-related medication, do not hesitate to consult your pharmacist. They can provide valuable guidance and information.