Being a Heart Saver

If you're with someone who seems to be having an attack, act immediately.

* Expect a "denial." It's normal for someone with chest pain to deny that it could be a heart attack. Don't take "no" for an answer. Insist on taking prompt action.
* Call an emergency service or get to the nearest hospital.
* Give CPR if it's necessary and you are properly trained..

Know common warning signs:
* Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back again;
* Pain that spreads to the shoulders, neck, or arms;
* Chest discomfort with lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, nausea, or shortness of breath;
* Many heart attacks cause completely different sensations. The signs listed here are common, but by no means are they the only possible indications of a heart attack in progress;.

Know what to do:
* Find out which nearby hospitals have 24-hour emergency cardiac care.
* Keep a list of emergency numbers next to the telephone and in your wallet.
* If you have chest discomfort, call an emergency service or have someone drive you to the nearest hospital. Don't drive yourself!