First Aid: Heart Attacks
A heart attack is an emergency, but the condition that causes it usually takes years to develop. Over time, fatty substances collect on the walls of the heart's arteries. As these arteries become narrower, it's more likely that one will become fully clogged, causing a heart attack.
1. Call 911 NOW!
2. Keep the Victim Calm
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Convince the victim to stop all activities.
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Reassure the victim to keep him or her calm, so the heart uses less oxygen.
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Loosen any clothing that may restrict breathing, such as a tie, collar, or belt.
3. Monitor the Victim
The warning signs of heart attack can include any of the following:
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Chest pain or constriction, like a belt squeezing the chest
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Heaviness in the chest area, as if a heavy weight is resting on the chest
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Heaviness or pain radiating to the arms, shoulders, jaw, or teeth
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Shortness of breath
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Pale or gray skin tone and sweating; cool, damp skin
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Feeling nauseated
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Symptoms that aren't relieved by heart medication
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Publication Source:
Ferri FF, Ferri's Clinical Advisor: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment, 2006 ed, Myocardial Infarction, 2006, pp 553-555
Publication Source:
Neumar RW, Ward KR, Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice, 5th ed., Chapter 7 - Adult Resuscitation, 2002, pp 65-78
Online Editor:
Rademaekers, Ed
Online Medical Reviewer:
Keyes, Linda MD
Date Last Reviewed:
6/1/2005
Date Last Modified:
6/1/2005