The claim that there is a “10-second trick” that can save you during a heart attack is not accurate. There is no guaranteed action you can do at home that will stop a heart attack in seconds. The most important steps are to recognize symptoms and get emergency help quickly.
If you think you are having a heart attack:
- Call emergency services immediately
- Do not wait to see if symptoms go away.
- Stop what you are doing and sit or lie down
- Try to stay as calm as possible and avoid exertion.
- If prescribed, take your heart medication as directed
- For example, someone who has been prescribed nitroglycerin should use it according to their doctor’s instructions.
- Chew aspirin only if appropriate
- If you are not allergic to aspirin, have not been told to avoid it, and emergency guidance in your area supports it, chewing an aspirin while waiting for help may be recommended for suspected heart attack.
- If the person becomes unconscious and is not breathing normally
- Someone nearby should start CPR and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available.
Common heart attack warning signs
- Pressure, squeezing, or pain in the chest
- Pain spreading to the arm, jaw, neck, back, or shoulder
- Shortness of breath
- Cold sweat
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sudden weakness or unusual fatigue
Some people—especially women, older adults, and people with diabetes—may have less typical symptoms.
If you or someone near you is having possible heart attack symptoms right now, seek emergency medical help immediately.
