Heart attack
A heart attack occurs when there is a sudden, complete blockage of an artery that supplies an area of the heart. As a result, a portion of the heart muscle begins to die.
A heart attack is an emergency. If you suspect you may be having a heart attack, you must get emergency medical treatment immediately by calling ‘000’ (triple zero).
Do not drive yourself to the hospital or get someone else to drive. The emergency operator will advise you on what to do while you wait for the ambulance. Once the ambulance arrives, the paramedics can start treatment straight away to restore blood flow in your heart as they rush you to the hospital.
Getting to hospital quickly can reduce the amount of permanent damage your heart muscle might suffer and increase your chance of survival.