Situation in which the coronary arteries (which carry blood to the heart) become obstructed and the heart is left without blood supply. It is an extremely urgent situation in which it is essential that the victim receive emergency medical attention. It should be suspected whenever any of these symptoms appear:
-Persistent pain in the chest that can spread to the neck, arms, shoulder, back and jaw.
-When you change position, that pain does not change.
-Problems breathing, faster breathing, feeling of suffocation; sometimes there is panting (“air hunger”).
-Cold, pale, sweaty and bluish skin.
-Sudden weakness or dizziness.
-Gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting.
-Alterations in the pulse (it may be fast and weak, or irregular).
-The victim may describe a feeling of “imminent death.” Unconsciousness and then cardiorespiratory arrest.
To do:
-Keep calm. Stay in control of the situation.
-Place the victim in a position where they are comfortable and without making any effort.
-Call 112 and write down the time of onset of the symptoms (pain) specifying those you have identified.
-If the person is conscious: If they have had symptoms on previous occasions and have medication, administer it. If you do not have medication and are not allergic to it, you can give him half an aspirin.
-Loosen all clothing that is constricting you and allow for good breathing (belts, collars, scarves, etc.)
-Monitor the person’s vital signs, and if they become unconscious, assess their breathing: If the victim is not breathing or their breathing is ineffective (gasping, little chest movement), prepare to begin CPR maneuvers.
-If he is breathing, place him in a lateral safety position and do not lose sight of his breathing.
-Control the victim and do not leave him alone at any time until help arrives.
-When the emergency medical services arrive, explain to them what has happened, the measures taken and all the information you have about the victim.