How to Prepare for a Heart Attack (Heart Health)

How to Prepare for a Heart Attack (Heart Health)

Nobody “plans” to have a heart attack, so preparing for one might strike you as a strange idea. It’s not strange at all: Nobody plans to have a house fire, either, yet many people have an emergency plan to help them survive one. It’s equally important to have a plan in place to deal with health emergencies, including heart attack. Taking a few moments now to prepare a plan could one day save your life — or the life of a loved one.

Understand the warning signs of a heart attack, such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and pain in your upper body.

Talk with family and friends about the warning signs and the need to call 9-1-1 quickly.

Talk with your health care provider about your risk factors for heart attack and how to reduce them.

Write out a “heart attack survival plan” that has vital medical information (such as medications you are taking and medications you are allergic to) and keep it handy.

Arrange in advance to have someone care for your children or other dependents in an emergency.

While it’s frightening to think about having a heart attack, a little bit of preparation can potentially save your life.

B-man :wink: