Getting prompt treatment for a heart attack can be lifesaving. Sit down or lie down. If symptoms persist for 5 minutes, call 911 or your local emergency number and say you may be having a heart attack. Leave the phone off the hook so that medical personnel can locate your address if you should become unconscious. If you have nitroglycerin tablets, take up to three pills, one at a time every 5 minutes if you continue to have persistent symptoms.
Ambulances are well equipped to provide emergency care for people who are having heart attacks.
It is better to have medical personnel come to you than for you to start off for the hospital. Do NOT drive yourself to the hospital if you think you are having a heart attack. Do not delay getting medical treatment, even if you are not sure you are having a heart attack. A delay can cause permanent damage to your heart muscle or even death. Let the doctor determine whether or not you are having a heart attack.