Heart attack: What to do and not to do

If immediate first-aid is not given to a heart attack patient, there may be permanent damage or a cardiac arrest.

Heart attack is one of the leading causes of death the world over. Most of these deaths take place, because proper first-aid or medical attention is not given between the time the person has the attack and the time the person reaches a hospital.

That is why it is important for everyone to know how and what to do, as soon as a person is suspected to have had a heart attack.  

Remember the following:

Every moment is precious in case of heart attack. The patient should not be left alone. He should not be given anything orally. Even if he feels little better, he should be taken to the nearest hospital as early as possible.

There is no household remedy for heart attack. The patient should be kept in lying down posture, clothing should be loosen up and he should be rushed to the nearest hospital.

Chewing one full tablet of aspirin, which inhibits platelet activity that could block arteries during an attack, can make a difference.

Giving glucose powder in spoonful dosages on or under the tongue frequently can also help minimise the damage. Sweet drinks are strictly prohibited for the patient, says a Times of India report.

If the person is unconscious and unresponsive, CPR (cardio pulmonary resuscitation) should be performed. He should be given chest thrust and mouth-to-mouth respiration.

People should not depend on the first-aid to benefit. Rather, they should reach the nearest facility which has ICU or advanced treatment facilities for heart.