If this is referring to the viral “10-second heart attack trick,” be careful: there is no proven maneuver that can stop a heart attack in 10 seconds. Coughing forcefully, banging your chest, drinking water, or trying other internet hacks can delay lifesaving treatment.
What to do instead
- Call your local emergency medical service immediately if you suspect a heart attack.
- Stop activity and sit somewhere safe while waiting for help.
- Use prescribed nitroglycerin if you have it, exactly as your doctor instructed.
- Ask the emergency dispatcher about aspirin. Chewing aspirin may be recommended for some people with suspected heart attack, but it isn’t appropriate for everyone.
- Don’t drive yourself if an ambulance is available.
Typical symptoms include pressure or pain in the chest, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or discomfort spreading to the arm, shoulder, back, neck, or jaw. Symptoms can be less typical in older adults and women.
If the person becomes unresponsive and isn’t breathing normally, call emergency services and begin CPR; use an AED if available.
If symptoms are happening now, don’t spend 10 seconds looking for a trick—call emergency medical help immediately.
