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DOCTORS RECOMMEND ADDING ASPIRIN TO YOUR FIRST AID KIT

Adding aspirin to your first aid kit and discussing its use with your doctor may help save your life or someone else's. According to the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), widespread use of aspirin for heart attack first aid could save 10,000 lives each year.

It turns out that taking one simple, old fashioned aspirin after the onset of a heart attack can reduce the chance of death by around 25 percent. That's more than a lot of newer , more complex treatments, said Dr. William Brady, associate professor of emergency medicine and medical director of the U.Va. Chest Pain Center.

Because aspirin may not be appropriate for everyone, including people with asthma, gastrointestinal sensitivity or an aspirin allergy, those at risk for heart attack should consult their doctor about this therapy. If aspirin is appropriate for you, keep it handy and make sure it is not expired. At the first sign of a heart attack, chew or crush and swallow one regular tablet as directed by your doctor.

Heart attack is the nation's leading killer, yet many sufferers deny their symptoms, and do not take immediate action. The average sufferer does not get to the hospital until almost five hours after the onset of symptoms, significantly increasing their chance of dying, according to ACEP.

Every minute counts, Brady said. Some treatments are only useful if patients get to the emergency department in the first couple of hours, so it's important to be educated about heart attack symptoms and know how to react.

Common signs of heart attack are:

  • pain or heavy pressure in chest

  • pain in shoulder, neck or arms

  • lightheadedness

  • fainting

  • paleness

  • sweating

  • nausea

  • shortness of breath

Brady also stresses that if you suspect you or someone you are with is suffering a heart attack, you should call 9-1-1 immediately. Rescue squads are able to offer treatment en route to the hospital, so do not waste time calling your doctor, and do not risk further injury by driving to the hospital.

June 12, 2000