Updated on - 05 Feb 2026
Heart attacks are sudden, life-threatening events that can affect anyone, often without warning. Globally, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) claim nearly 17.9 million lives each year, according to the WHO (World Health Organisation). CVDs include a range of disorders affecting both blood vessels and the heart, such as coronary and rheumatic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease and others. Survival in a heart attack depends heavily on swift recognition and immediate intervention, which is why knowing the warning signs and how to provide first aid is crucial.
In this blog, you will learn about the causes and symptoms of a heart attack, essential first aid measures, effective prevention strategies and practical tips to respond calmly and efficiently during a heart attack emergency.
What causes a heart attack?
A heart attack is often caused when the blood supply to a heart muscle is blocked. It is often due to plaque buildup in the coronary arteries. This restricts oxygen delivery, causing heart tissue to die. Key risk factors include:
- High blood pressure strains the heart and arteries, increasing the risk of damage.
- Elevated cholesterol leads to plaque buildup, narrowing arteries.
- Diabetes damages blood vessels and speeds up artery blockage.
- Smoking lowers blood oxygen and raises clotting risk.
- Obesity is linked with high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes.
- Lack of physical activity weakens the heart and circulation.
- Excessive alcohol can raise blood pressure and cause irregular heartbeats.
- Chronic stress triggers hormonal changes that strain the heart.
Symptoms of a heart attack
The symptoms of a heart attack differ for men and women, but the need for quick action remains crucial. Spotting a heart attack by quickly recognising the symptoms is critical in order to provide heart attack first aid.
Men
- Crushing/ burning chest pain
- Sensation of squeezing, pressure or discomfort in the chest
- Discomfort or tightness in the neck and/or jaw
- Shortness of breath and palpitations
- Pain in the arms, often the left arm, shoulder blades and back
Often, men suffering a heart attack will break out in a sweat and can lose consciousness. The pain is usually gradual and can last for several minutes. It’s not uncommon for the pain to fade and come back again, in which case heart attack first aid becomes essential.
Women
- Pressure or pain in the lower chest
- Pressure or pain in the upper abdomen
- Pressure in the upper back
- Nausea and lightheaded
- Shortness of breath
- Extreme fatigue
Women suffering a heart attack usually believe it to be indigestion, heartburn or extreme tiredness. Being aware and providing heart attack first aid will do no harm, even if it turns out to be only indigestion.
Steps to take: First aid for a heart attack
Immediate action can save lives. Follow these steps:
For a conscious patient
- Ease strain on the patient’s heart by helping them to a comfortable position. An ideal position is on the floor, leaning against a wall with head and shoulders supported and knees bent.
- Loosen the clothing around their neck, chest and waist. For instance, if they are wearing a tie, remove it and unbutton the top button.
- Call for help, but don’t let bystanders crowd the patient. Avoid leaving the patient unattended.
- Call an emergency helpline number 112 or 102 for an ambulance. You can call the local neighbourhood hospital if you believe that’s going to be quicker.
- If the patient has been prescribed medicine for cardiovascular diseases, help them take it.
- Continuously monitor the patient. Check their breathing, pulse and keep an eye on their consciousness.
For an unconscious patient
Heart attack first aid for a patient who loses consciousness goes a little beyond the above steps:
- Make sure to inform the ambulance/emergency number operator that the patient is unconscious. This is essential because they will dispatch the ambulance with needed equipment like a defibrillator, which is used to restart the heart, an ECG machine, a ventilator, an oxygen cylinder, etc.
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is advised when the patient is unconscious.
- If you aren’t trained in CPR, provide hands-only chest compressions. You can be guided by the emergency number operator/medical assistant on call to perform them.
How to give chest compressions (for adults)
- In the centre of the patient’s chest, place the heel of your hand, one on top of the other and lace your fingers together.
- Keep your shoulders directly above your hands and straighten out your arms.
- Compress the chest at least by 2 inches by pushing hard and fast.
- Compress at least 100 times per minute with minimal interruptions.
- Let the patient’s chest rise completely before you push down again.
- Stop only if the patient starts breathing normally again, a trained person or medical assistant takes over, you’re too exhausted to continue properly, or an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available.
What not to do if someone is having a heart attack
Avoid doing the following things when dealing with a case of a heart attack:
- Do not leave the patient unattended.
- Do not delay the call to the hospital.
- Do not offer them food or drink, as it might worsen their condition and make it difficult for a medical care provider to deal with the case.
- Do not stress yourself. By staying calm, you can handle the situation better.
How to prevent a heart attack?
There are a few preventive methods which reduce the risk of a heart attack:
- Follow a healthy and balanced diet with fruits, whole grains, vegetables and proteins.
- Exercise daily, aiming for 3-4 times a week for a moderate workout.
- Avoid smoking as well as passive smoking.
- Manage conditions like diabetes, stress and cholesterol.
- Work on stress reduction through yoga and meditation, and build overall health.
Heart attack first aid: SOSs
Encourage the individual to sit down in a comfortable position. Sitting helps reduce the heart's workload and lowers the risk of fainting. Ensure they remain calm and still, as movement can exacerbate the situation. Call the local emergency number, i.e., 112 in India, immediately. Do not wait to see if symptoms improve.
If the person is conscious, not allergic and has no contraindications, offer them a 325 mg aspirin to chew. Chewing allows the medication to enter the bloodstream more quickly, helping to prevent or reduce blood clots that block arteries. If the person becomes unconscious and is not breathing or has no pulse, begin CPR immediately.
Common mistakes to avoid during a heart attack emergency
Avoiding the following mistakes ensures that first aid is effective and the victim receives timely treatment:
- Panicking and losing focus
- Attempting aggressive first aid without knowledge
- Underestimating mild symptoms
- Waiting too long to call emergency services
- Assuming heart attacks only affect older people
Role of health insurance in heart attack emergencies
A comprehensive health insurance policy ensures that critical care is accessible when it is needed most. It provides immediate coverage for emergency treatment, eliminating financial delays, and also covers hospitalisation, surgeries and medications, easing the overall financial burden. Additionally, it offers support for rehabilitation and follow-up care, helping ensure a smooth and well-managed recovery.
Conclusion
Heart attacks are sudden and potentially fatal, but quick action, knowledge and preparedness can save lives. Recognising the causes, understanding symptoms, performing first aid correctly and preventing future risks through lifestyle changes are essential steps.
While you take proactive steps to care for your heart and lead a healthier life, let us take care of you during unexpected medical situations. Get tailored critical illness insurance advice and coverage solutions by filling out the form provided on this page. Our experts will help you choose a plan that protects you and your loved ones when you need it the most.
FAQs
1. Can young people get heart attacks?
Yes, though comparatively rare, heart attacks can occur in young people, especially those who have underlying health issues.
2. Is chest pain always a sign of a heart attack?
No. Chest pain is caused by several reasons, which may or may not be related to a heart condition. It is advisable to consult a medical professional in case of chest pain.
3. What is the difference between a heart attack and cardiac arrest?
A heart attack is caused by blocked blood flow to the heart, while cardiac arrest is caused by an electrical disturbance that stops the heart.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.