Doctors Share Essential Steps To Follow During A Heart Attack Emergency

Cardiovascular disease continues to remain one of the leading causes of death in India, with heart attacks increasingly being reported among younger individuals as well. According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular conditions account for more than 27 per cent of all deaths in the country, underlining the importance of recognising symptoms early and responding quickly during the first few minutes of a medical emergency.

A heart attack usually occurs when blood flow to the heart muscle becomes blocked, often due to plaque buildup or clot formation inside the arteries. If treatment is delayed, the lack of oxygen can cause permanent damage to heart tissue. Medical experts stress that a heart attack differs from a cardiac arrest, where the heart suddenly stops beating altogether. Recognising the distinction is important because both situations require urgent but slightly different responses.

Common symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain or pressure, discomfort spreading to the arm, neck, jaw or back, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea and cold sweats. Doctors also caution that women may experience less typical symptoms, which can sometimes delay diagnosis. Health experts say immediate action during the first 10 minutes can significantly improve survival chances and reduce long-term complications.

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Medical specialists advise that the first step during a suspected heart attack is to immediately call emergency medical services. Quick access to professional care remains the most critical factor in survival, as a patient’s condition can deteriorate rapidly. While waiting for help, the person should be seated comfortably and encouraged to remain calm in order to reduce strain on the heart and stabilise blood pressure.

Experts also recommend giving the patient aspirin, provided there is no known allergy or medical restriction, because it can help reduce blood clot formation and improve blood flow. Tight clothing should be loosened to ease breathing and reduce discomfort. Observers are advised to closely monitor symptoms, including worsening chest pain, breathing difficulty or loss of consciousness, as this information can assist doctors in emergency treatment.

Cardiologist Upendra Kaul has emphasised that cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) becomes essential if the patient collapses or stops responding. Immediate CPR can help maintain blood circulation and oxygen supply to vital organs until professional medical assistance arrives. Health experts continue to stress that wider public awareness of CPR and emergency heart attack response could save thousands of lives each year, particularly given the growing incidence of cardiac emergencies among younger populations in India.

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