If you think you’re having a heart attack, there is no proven “10-second trick” that can stop it at home. The most important action is to get emergency medical help immediately. The American Heart Association specifically advises calling emergency services first and not delaying for aspirin or other home remedies.
What to do immediately
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Call your local emergency number. Don’t drive yourself to the hospital; an ambulance team can begin treatment on the way.
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Stop what you’re doing and sit or rest in a comfortable position. Avoid exertion while waiting.
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Follow the emergency dispatcher’s instructions.
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Aspirin: guidance differs by health system. Some guidelines advise chewing 300 mg if you’re not allergic and it is otherwise safe, while the AHA recommends calling emergency services first and following the operator/medical professional’s advice. Don’t take aspirin and wait to see if symptoms improve.
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If you become unconscious and aren’t breathing normally, someone nearby should call emergency services and begin CPR; an AED should be used if available.
Don’t try “cough CPR,” force yourself to walk around, or rely on drinking water or other home remedies. These don’t treat a blocked coronary artery.
If you’re having chest pressure/pain, shortness of breath, cold sweating, nausea, or pain spreading to your arm, back, neck, or jaw right now, treat it as an
