You're on the stretcher; your face is blue; you hear loud noises and are dissoriented by bright lights. Incessant babble by the doctors confuses you; you try to tell them that you're allergic to a certain medicine. You've had a heart attack, but you'll be alright, since you knew just what to do and how to do it.

Do you know what to do?
This is a very important question to ask yourself. It can make the difference between life and death.
Here is how you can save your own life, and these steps should be followed the instant that you feel any abnormality in your chest:

1. Breathe very deeply and rapidly, but be careful not to hyperventilate
2. Alert your spouse or other roommate
3. Call your local emergency center, usually "911"
4. Call your nearest neighbor and alert them
5. Take the recommend adult dosage of asprin
6. Lie down and continue to breathe deeply and rapidly
7. Try to relax your muscles, as this will prevent your heart from working too hard

Do not question your judgement under any circumstances!
Once you are in the ambulance, the situation may become confusing. The paramedic will probably ask you questions about medicine allergies and medical history. Answer these questions to the best of your ability, as this will help the paramedic to better treat you and prepare you for your visit to the hospital.