Understanding Heart Attack

A medical emergency where blood flow to the heart is blocked, causing damage to heart muscle.

A heart attack happens when a blockage in the coronary arteries prevents oxygenated blood from reaching the heart muscle. Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, and nausea. Immediate emergency treatment is vital. While acupressure is not a substitute for care, calming techniques may help reduce anxiety and stress in recovery stages.

Recognizing Symptoms

Physical Symptoms

  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sweating
  • Arm or jaw pain
  • Nausea

Emotional Impact

  • Fear
  • Panic
  • Sense of doom

Primary Points for Heart Attack

Select a point to learn more.

Additional Support Points

Select a point to learn more.

Heart Attack Emergency Support (While awaiting paramedics)

Treatment Protocol

  1. CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY - give aspirin if available and not allergic
  2. Have person sit upright or in most comfortable position, loosen tight clothing
  3. Apply gentle pressure to PC-6 (inner wrist) and CV-17 (center chest) to ease tightness
  4. Massage LI-4 (hand web) and ST-36 (below knee) gently to support circulation
  5. Stay calm, monitor breathing and consciousness, be ready to perform CPR if trained

Supporting Your Recovery

Lifestyle

  • Diet & Exercise: Maintain heart health with balanced meals and regular movement
  • Stress Management: Chronic stress increases cardiac risk — use calming acupressure daily

Important

  • Know the Signs: Chest pressure, arm pain, and shortness of breath require immediate action
  • Emergency Protocol: Call emergency services — do not delay or self-diagnose