Headlines claiming you can perform a simple “10-second trick”—such as aggressive coughing (often called “cough CPR”) or pressing specific points—to stop or survive a heart attack at home are dangerous medical myths.
Medical authorities, including the American Heart Association (AHA), explicitly warn that “cough CPR” is not effective or safe for a real cardiac arrest. When a heart attack strikes or the heart stops beating, attempting unproven DIY techniques wastes precious seconds and delays the only interventions that actually save lives.
If you suspect you or someone else is experiencing a heart attack, here is what you should do immediately.
What to Do in a Cardiac Emergency (Step-by-Step)
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Call Emergency Services Immediately (e.g., 911 or your local emergency number)
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Do not wait to see if the pain passes. Every minute counts during a heart attack or cardiac arrest. Put the phone on speaker so you can follow the dispatcher’s instructions.
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Chew Aspirin (If Advised and Appropriate)
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If the person is conscious, not allergic to aspirin, and has not been told by a doctor to avoid it, chewing (not just swallowing) a regular or low-dose aspirin can help slow blood clotting in the coronary arteries.
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Unlock the Door
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If you are alone and feeling faint or having chest pain, unlock your front door so emergency responders can enter quickly without delay.
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Stop Activity and Sit Down
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Sit or lie down immediately to reduce the heart’s workload and prevent a dangerous fall if dizziness or fainting occurs.
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Begin CPR and Use an AED (If Cardiac Arrest Occurs)
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If the person becomes unresponsive, collapses, and is not breathing normally:
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Start Hands-Only CPR: Push hard and fast in the center of the chest (at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, roughly to the beat of the song “Stayin’ Alive”).
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Use an AED: If an Automated External Defibrillator is nearby, retrieve it immediately and follow its voice prompts.
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Recognizing the Warning Signs of a Heart Attack
Knowing the symptoms ensures you can seek professional medical help before a crisis escalates:
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Chest Discomfort: Pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.
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Radiating Pain: Discomfort spreading to one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
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Associated Symptoms: Sudden shortness of breath, breaking out in a cold sweat, lightheadedness, or unexplained nausea.
