A blog header for HealthCo First Aid titled 'Heart Attack.' The left side features the blog title in bold blue text on a gradient background, while the right side shows a round-cropped photo of an older woman experiencing chest pain and a younger woman assisting her with concern. The HealthCo blog shield logo is visible in the bottom-right corner.

HealthCo First Aid: Heart Attack

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A blog header for HealthCo First Aid titled 'Heart Attack.' The left side features the blog title in bold blue text on a gradient background, while the right side shows a round-cropped photo of an older woman experiencing chest pain and a younger woman assisting her with concern. The HealthCo blog shield logo is visible in the bottom-right corner.

Welcome to our HealthCo First Aid Series: your go-to guide for handling medical emergencies with confidence. In each post, we’ll break down how to recognize symptoms, what actions to take, and how to stay calm and effective in critical moments. Let’s begin with one of the most time-sensitive emergencies: heart attacks.

What is a Heart Attack?

A heart attack (also called myocardial infarction) happens when blood flow to the heart is blocked, usually by a clot or plaque. Without oxygen-rich blood, heart muscle begins to die — and fast action can mean the difference between life and death.

Symptoms: Men vs. Women

Recognizing the signs early is key — but symptoms can vary based on sex.

In Men:

  • Chest pain or pressure (often described as a squeezing or “elephant-on-the-chest” sensation)
  • Pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cold sweat
  • Nausea or light-headedness

In Women:

Women may or may not experience chest pain. They often report:

  • Extreme fatigue (days or hours before)
  • Nausea, vomiting, indigestion
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pain in the back, jaw, or stomach
  • Dizziness or anxiety (often mistaken for a panic attack)

Remember: Women are more likely to have subtle symptoms — so trust your gut and act if something feels off.

What To Do If You Think Someone Is Having a Heart Attack

Step-by-step:

  1. Call emergency services immediately (112 in Ireland). Don’t wait more than 5 minutes.
  2. Keep the person calm and seated, ideally with their back supported and knees bent.
  3. Ask about medication: If they have prescribed medication for chest pain (e.g., nitro-glycerine), help them take it.
  4. Offer aspirin (unless allergic or told not to take it). One standard tablet (300mg) helps thin the blood.
  5. Be ready to perform CPR
    • If they become unresponsive and not breathing normally, start chest compressions.
    • Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if available and follow voice prompts. If you’d like to learn how to, you can view our blog where you can learn how to use an AED.

💡 Best Practices in Heart Attack Emergencies

  • Do NOT leave them alone unless it’s to get help.
  • Don’t give food or drink.
  • Don’t try to transport them unless absolutely necessary — wait for professional help.
  • Stay calm and reassuring. Panic can make the situation worse.

HealthCo First Aid infographic on heart attacks, showing symptoms in men and women, key actions to take, and what not to do. Includes icons and text indicating chest pain, shortness of breath, jaw or back pain, fatigue, nausea, and anxiety. Lists first aid steps such as calling 112, offering aspirin, keeping the person calm, and being ready to perform CPR. Also includes HealthCo branding and contact details at the bottom.You can also download a printable infographic that shows symptoms of a heart attack, how to treat it and what to refrain from doing! Follow this link to download your free copy.

Final Thought: Seconds Save Lives

Heart attacks don’t always look like they do in movies. They can be quiet, subtle, and still deadly. Recognizing the signs, calling for help quickly, and knowing basic first aid can truly save a life — maybe even someone you love.

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