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In the case of a heart attack, every second counts. What many don’t know: 70% of heart attacks occur when the affected person is alone, and over 90% don’t reach the hospital in time. The heart can fail without warning, but knowing what to do in the first few moments significantly increases the chances of survival.
Scientists and experts agree on one point: you don’t need medication or equipment, just to stay calm and apply simple first aid measures. These measures can maintain your heartbeat while you wait for help or get to safety.
1. Use the “rescue cough” to stabilize your heartbeat.
When the heart beats irregularly, dizziness, weakness, cold sweats, or a strong pressure in the chest often occur. In such moments, a simple technique can buy valuable seconds: a strong, repeated cough.
How does it work?
- Take a deep breath.
- Then cough forcefully, as if you wanted to expel something from your lungs.
- Repeat this every 2 seconds, maintaining the rhythm.
This type of cough increases pressure in the chest cavity and promotes blood flow to the brain. While it doesn’t cure the illness, it can maintain blood flow long enough to call for help or get to safety.
2. Apply pressure to the correct point on the chest.
In some cases, when the heart begins to fail, a rapid mechanical stimulus can help restore an irregular heartbeat. This maneuver is known by experts as an “emergency stroke.”
How does it work?
- With your hand closed, locate the center of your ribcage, directly above your sternum.
- Deliver a firm but non-violent blow that is nevertheless strong enough to elicit a reaction.
- This should only be done once and as a last resort if symptoms of impending cardiac arrest occur (loss of strength, blurred vision, difficulty breathing).
This beat can help the heart regain a more stable rhythm while you receive professional help.
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