A heart attack is not usually “seconds to save your life,” but it is a true emergency where minutes matter. The most important thing is to act immediately and get emergency help.
If you think you’re having a heart attack, here’s what to do:
1) Call emergency services immediately
In Pakistan, call:
- 1122 (Rescue 1122)
Do not try to “wait it out” or drive yourself if possible.
2) Stop all activity and sit down
- Sit upright and rest
- Loosen tight clothing
- Try to stay as still as possible to reduce strain on the heart
3) Chew aspirin (if available and safe for you)
- Chew one standard aspirin (300–325 mg) if you are not allergic and have no medical reason to avoid it
- Chewing works faster than swallowing
4) If you are alone
- Unlock your door if possible so rescuers can access you
- Keep your phone with you and stay on the line with emergency services
5) If someone else is with you
- They should call 1122 immediately
- Be ready to start CPR if you collapse and become unresponsive
6) If the person becomes unconscious
- Check breathing
- If not breathing normally, start CPR (chest compressions) immediately until help arrives
Important to know
Common warning signs include:
- Chest pressure, tightness, or pain (often central or left side)
- Pain spreading to arm, jaw, neck, or back
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat, nausea, dizziness
If you want, I can also explain how to recognize a heart attack vs anxiety or gas pain, or give you a simple CPR guide you can remember easily.
