If You Think You’re Having a Heart Attack, Don’t Wait for a “10-Second Trick”
There is no 10-second maneuver that can stop or reverse a heart attack. In particular, viral advice about “cough CPR” is not a proven treatment and should not replace emergency care.
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If you develop possible heart-attack symptoms:
Call your local emergency number immediately. Don’t drive yourself to the hospital. EMS can begin treatment on the way.
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Stop what you’re doing and sit or rest in a comfortable position while waiting for help. Avoid exertion.
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Aspirin may be appropriate for an alert adult with non-traumatic chest pain: current American Heart Association guidance allows 162–325 mg chewed and swallowed, unless the person has an aspirin allergy or has been told by a healthcare professional not to take it. If you’re uncertain, wait for EMS advice.
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If the person becomes unresponsive and isn’t breathing normally, call emergency services and begin CPR; use an AED if one is available.
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Recognize the warning signs
Heart-attack symptoms can include pressure or pain in the chest, pain in the arm/back/jaw/neck, shortness of breath, cold sweating, nausea, or light-headedness. Symptoms can be less typical in women and older adults.
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Minutes matter. If this is happening to you right now, call your local emergency service now rather than trying a home remedy.
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