Cardiac emergency: the vital gestures you need to know to act in less than a minute

What to do to preserve your heart health

A heart attack can happen at any time, often without warning. How do you react effectively in this critical situation, whether you are a victim or a witness?

• Absolute priority: contact the emergency services immediately (in France, dial 15 or 112). Every minute counts to save lives.
• While waiting for help, adopt this surprising but effective reflex: cough deeply and energetically. Take a deep breath before expelling the air violently, as if to clear your bronchial tubes. This simple maneuver helps maintain oxygenation of the heart and brain. While it is not a substitute for a medical procedure, it can save precious seconds.

Taking care of your heart on a daily basis: our practical advice

Cardiac prevention is often based on habits that are simple to incorporate into your routine. Discover our tips for pampering your cardiovascular system.

1. Adopt a core-compatible power supply

Choose colourful meals, rich in plants, whole grains and essential fatty acids. The idea? Reduce harmful fats while promoting omega-3 (found in oily fish, nuts or rapeseed oil).

Unexpected bonus: these foods also boost your good mood!

2. Get moving without pressure

There’s no need to aim for Olympic performances: half an hour of moderate daily activity (cycling, active walking, water aerobics) works wonders. To maximize benefits, add two weekly sessions of resistance exercise.

3. Saying goodbye to cigarettes

Every puff takes a toll on your cardiovascular system. Set realistic milestones, explore nicotine replacement therapy and create a supportive environment. Every unsmoked cigarette is a victory.

4. Taming your stress

This silent killer wears out your heart prematurely. Develop your anti-stress toolbox: cardiac coherence, yoga, art therapy or simply a break in the park. The main thing? Find what really recharges you.

5. Schedule regular check-ups

Appropriate medical follow-up (blood pressure measurement, lipid profile) makes it possible to detect any problems early. Think of it as a preventive revision for your body.

The last word: heart health is a daily necessity

No need for a total revolution: gradual adjustments and listening carefully to your body often make the difference. And above all, in an emergency situation, remember: calling for help and a reflex cough can save lives.