accessibility & help

First aid for a
heart attack

Watch the video, in which Ahmet is helped during a heart attack.

Use the information below the video to remind yourself how to help someone who is having a heart attack.

1

The person may have persistent, vice-like chest pain, which may spread to their arms, neck, jaw, back or stomach.

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This pain is caused by a blockage of the blood supply to the heart muscle, and the pain will not ease with rest.

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2

Call 999 immediately or get someone else to do it.

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The person must receive medical assistance as soon as possible, because a heart attack is potentially very serious and needs immediate attention.

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3

Make sure they are in a position that is comfortable for them (e.g. sit them on the floor, leaning against a wall or chair).

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This will ease the strain on the heart. Sitting them on the floor means they are less likely to hurt themselves if they collapse.

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4

Give them constant reassurance while waiting for the ambulance.

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Questions and answers

Questions and answers about first aid for heart attacks.

Questions and answers
First aid training

We offer public and workplace first aid courses throughout the UK. You can also train as a group at a venue to suit you.

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No First Aid Kit? No Problem!

Take a look at the everyday household items you can use for first aid treatment.

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Fast first aid tips

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Send us your stories

We’d love to hear about your own real-life first aid stories. Email us at firstaid@redcross.org.uk or use this form.

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