Health security

What to do if you think you’re having a heart attack

The Feb. 21 Health article “Her arteries were clear. Her cholesterol was fine. Still, she was having a heart attack” shone a much-needed spotlight on the different heart-attack symptoms and types of heart disease that are more common in women than in men. What was missing was what to do if you think you are having a heart attack.

The lifesaving actions to take are simple. Call 911 and clearly state that you think you are having a heart attack and describe your symptoms. While you are waiting for help to arrive, chew one adult or two baby aspirins and drink a full glass of water. This can help reduce blood clots.

Do not drive yourself, or have someone drive you, to the hospital. You will begin receiving lifesaving treatment while you are in transit with emergency services, and you will not have to wait in line to be admitted to the emergency room.