When Every Second Counts: A Simple 3-Step Plan to Help During a Heart Attack, Says India’s Leading Cardiologist

Heart attacks often arrive without warning, and the minutes that follow are critical. Senior cardiologists in India say that bystanders who act quickly and calmly can dramatically increase a patient’s chance of survival. Too many people lose valuable time through confusion or panic; a few clear actions in the early moments can change the outcome.

1. Recognize the Warning Signs

Knowing the common signals of a heart attack is the first step. Dr. Ashok Seth, a leading cardiologist in India, warns that many individuals dismiss early symptoms as indigestion, stress, or fatigue.
Typical signs to watch for include:

Chest discomfort or a sensation of heavy pressure that lasts several minutes

Pain that moves into the arms, neck, jaw, or back

Difficulty breathing or a feeling of breathlessness

Sweating, lightheadedness, or nausea

Dr. Seth urges people not to ignore persistent chest pain. “If the discomfort continues beyond about five minutes, assume it could be a heart attack until tests show otherwise,” he says. Early recognition gives caregivers a chance to act and save a life.

2. Call for Medical Help Immediately

After recognizing a possible heart attack, contact emergency services right away. Do not try to drive yourself to hospital or delay to see if symptoms settle. In India, dial 108 or the appropriate local emergency number.
If an ambulance cannot be dispatched quickly, arrange for a trusted person to take the patient to the nearest hospital with cardiac facilities.

While waiting for professional help:

Sit the person down and keep them as relaxed as possible.

Loosen tight garments like collars and belts.

Discourage walking or other exertion.

If the patient is awake and not allergic, chewing one adult aspirin (around 300 mg) can help by reducing clot formation.

Dr. Seth stresses that delays directly harm heart muscle. “Aim to reach care within the first hour — the so-called golden hour — to limit lasting damage,” he notes.

3. Keep Calm and Help the Patient Breathe

Maintaining consciousness and breathing is the top priority. If the person suddenly becomes unresponsive:

Check whether they are breathing.

If there is no pulse or breathing, begin CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) straight away.
To perform CPR:

Place both hands on the centre of the chest and compress firmly and rapidly — roughly 100 compressions per minute.

Continue chest compressions until paramedics take over or the person regains breathing.

Dr. Seth points out that even basic, imperfect CPR can substantially raise survival odds. “Acting is far better than waiting for perfect technique,” he says.

A Message from the Doctor

India’s heart experts remind the public that prevention remains essential. Healthy eating, regular physical activity, stress management and routine medical check-ups reduce risk.
“Heart attacks are occurring in younger people more frequently because of unhealthy lifestyles and late diagnosis,” Dr. Seth warns. “But better awareness and prompt action can save thousands of lives every year.”