Coronary heart disease: emergency medications

During an episode of heart attack, time is really crucial. The more time pass by, the more heart cells die. By acting immediately may save a person's life. Family members and the patient should know very well on the emergency steps during an episode of heart attack.

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Immediate recognition of important signs and symptoms

Call for emergency help first

This should be the first step to be done when there is episode of heart attack and should not be delayed. Call 911 or local emergency services. They may give initial treatment first upon their arrival while driving the patient to the nearest hospital. If access to medical services is not available, family members or people around should drive the patient to the hospital. Patient should not driving himself to the hospital unless there is no other option.

Emergency medications

There are 2 types of medications that patient could take as an initial treatment while awaiting for arrival of emergency medical personnel or before arriving at hospital.

Nitrates (Nitroglycerin)

Patient may has nitroglycerin as one of the medications for coronary heart disease, which has been prescribed by the doctor, to be taken during an attack. This medication should be taken as instructed.

Aspirin

Aspirin is a common medication used in the treatment of coronary heart disease. Patient should be on this medication unless there was history of allergy to the drug or there is other contraindication. Chew and swallow an aspirin (300mg) is one of  the emergency treatment during a heart attack unless there is contraindication. You may want to discuss with your doctor further regarding this step. 

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Heart attack: aspirin may save your life!

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