Put the phone on speaker so you can keep helping. The dispatcher can talk you through what to do.
Call 911Do this now
- Call 911 now. Don’t drive to the hospital yourself unless there is no other choice.
- Have the person stop and rest in a comfortable position, like sitting.
- Aspirin: if the 911 dispatcher says to, and they aren’t allergic and haven’t been told to avoid it, have them chew 1 regular aspirin (325 mg) or 2 to 4 low-dose aspirin (81 mg).
- Help them take their own nitroglycerin if a doctor prescribed it.
- If they collapse and aren’t breathing normally, start CPR and use an AED if one is nearby.
- Chest pain, pressure, squeezing, or fullness that lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back
- Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach
- Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort
- A cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness
Signs can be different
Chest discomfort is the most common sign, but not everyone has it. Women, older adults, and people with diabetes are more likely to have other symptoms, like shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, back or jaw pain, unusual tiredness, or lightheadedness. Some heart attacks start slowly, with mild discomfort.
If you’re not sure, call 911. It’s much better to be checked and be fine than to wait.
About aspirin
Aspirin can help keep a blood clot from getting bigger, but it isn’t safe for everyone. Call 911 first — don’t delay calling to look for aspirin. The dispatcher can help you decide. Chewing works faster than swallowing it whole. Don’t give aspirin to someone who is allergic to it, has been told by a doctor not to take it, or has a bleeding problem.
While you wait
- Stay with the person and keep them calm.
- Loosen tight clothing.
- Unlock the door and turn on outside lights to help responders find you.
- Write down when the symptoms started.