There is no 10-second trick that can guarantee saving your life during a heart attack. The most important action is to get emergency medical help immediately. Fast treatment can limit heart-muscle damage and improve survival.
1. Call Emergency Services Immediately
If you have symptoms that could indicate a heart attack, stop what you’re doing and call your local emergency number.
Typical warning signs include:
- Pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the chest
- Pain spreading to the arm, shoulder, back, neck, jaw, or upper abdomen
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sudden weakness, dizziness, or unusual fatigue
Don’t wait to see whether the symptoms disappear.
2. Sit Down and Stay as Calm as Possible
Stop physical activity and sit or lie in a comfortable position while waiting for help.
Do not drive yourself to the hospital. An ambulance crew can begin assessment and treatment on the way and is safer if your condition suddenly worsens.
3. Ask About Aspirin
If an emergency dispatcher or healthcare professional advises you to do so, chewing an appropriate dose of aspirin may be recommended for some adults with suspected heart attack.
However, aspirin isn’t appropriate for everyone—for example, people with certain allergies, bleeding problems, or other contraindications. Don’t delay the emergency call while looking for aspirin.
4. Don’t Rely on “Cough CPR”
You may see viral advice claiming that forceful coughing can stop a heart attack or keep you alive.
Do not rely on this technique. It is not a standard treatment for a heart attack and can delay getting appropriate emergency care.
5. If the Person Becomes Unresponsive
If someone collapses and is not responding and not breathing normally, call emergency services and begin CPR immediately. If an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available, use it and follow its spoken instructions.
The Most Important 10 Seconds
If you remember only one thing:
Recognize the possibility of a heart attack → call emergency services → stop exertion → follow the dispatcher’s instructions.
Don’t wait for a “miracle trick.” Every minute can matter during a heart attack.
