Care ABC - H for Heart Attack

A heart attack is not just a medical emergency - it also brings with it a wave of uncertainty and responsibility, especially for Relatives.When a loved one suddenly complains of chest pain or seems unusually exhausted, we often feel helpless. What can you do in this exceptional situation? And what can you do afterwards when everyday life is suddenly dominated by medication schedules, doctors' appointments and worries about Health Destined for your loved one?

This guide gives you concrete answers so that you can act correctly in an emergency and provide meaningful support in the time afterwards. We want to take away your fears and give you the knowledge you need. Because your informed, calm handling of the situation can not only save lives, but also have a decisive influence on your family member's recovery. It's a new path that you are now walking together with your loved ones - and you don't have to walk it alone.

Man clutching his chest in pain, possibly due to a heart attack or other heart problem.

What is a heart attack?

A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when one of the coronary arteries is suddenly blocked - usually by a blood clot. As a result, the heart muscle is no longer supplied with sufficient oxygen. If there is no blood flow for too long, heart muscle cells die. This is a life-threatening condition.

Recognizing heart attack symptoms: The most important warning signs

A heart attack does not always manifest itself with the typical, severe chest pain. Particularly in women, older people or diabetics, the symptoms may be atypical or less severe. It is crucial to be aware of these differences in order to raise the alarm in good time.

Typical symptoms in comparison

Heart attack symptoms in men and women

symptom For men For women
Chest pain Often severe and radiating Often unclear or absent
Shortness of breath Frequent Very common, also isolated
Nausea / vomiting Possible Very common
Cold sweat / pallor Yes Yes
Fear / anxiety Yes Yes
Upper abdominal / back pain Rarely Frequently

 

Immediate help: Acting correctly in an emergency

The faster action is taken, the greater the chance of survival and the less damage to the heart. Never hesitate to call the emergency services.

CPR training with defibrillator on a manikin. Person wears gloves and prepares the defibrillator pads.

How to do it right:

  • Dial 911 immediately: Choose in Germany the 112 and in Austria the 144. Describe the situation precisely.
  • Calm the person concerned: Talk to them calmly and reassuringly. Open tight clothing around the neck and chest to make breathing easier.
  • Slightly straighten your upper body: A seated position with the upper body slightly upright makes it easier to breathe.
  • Do not leave alone: Stay with the person until the emergency services arrive.
  • If unconscious: Check for breathing. If there is no breathing, start chest compressions immediately.

 

Care after a heart attack: step by step

After being discharged from hospital, a crucial phase begins for you as a relative. Care requires patience, structure and an open eye for warning signs.

The stages of recovery

Care after a heart attack is divided into different phases, each of which has a different focus:

Comparison of acute phase vs. long-term care after a heart attack

Care phases after a heart attack

phase Aim of the care Measures Who provides support?
Acute phase (1-7 days) Stabilization & protection Positioning, administration of medication, vital sign monitoring Hospital team, discharge care
Early rehabilitation (2-4 weeks) Mobilization & everyday life training Movement exercises, adapt diet Family doctor, rehab team
Long-term care (from week 5) Relapse prevention & independence Heart-healthy diet, daily structure, support Relatives, care service

 

Strengthening the heart: nutrition and exercise

A heart-healthy diet and targeted exercise are crucial for recovery. Support your loved ones in this.

Recommended diet after heart attack (Heart Healthy)

Heart-healthy nutrition: what is recommended?

food Recommended ✅ Avoid ❌
Whole grain products ✅ -
Fruit & vegetables ✅ -
Low-fat dairy products ✅ -
Trans fats / ready meals - ❌
Saturated fats (sausage, butter) - ❌
Salt in large quantities - ❌

 

Keep an eye on warning signs

Regular checks provide security. Pay attention to changes in your condition, as they may indicate complications.

Warning signs - When to seek medical help?

Important warning symptoms after a heart attack

symptom Meaning reaction
Sudden shortness of breath Possible relapse or strain Immediate medical clarification
Tightness in the chest Warning signs of cardiac stress Rest + emergency call in case of worsening
Unusual tiredness Sign of undersupply Protection & doctor contact
Heart stumbling or racing Rhythm disturbance possible Check vital signs, inform doctor
Confusion / language problems Possible stroke Call 112 immediately

 

Care level after a heart attack: What you are entitled to

A nurse sensitively holds the hand of a patient lying in bed in a bright, quiet room.

 

If you have permanent restrictions such as exhaustion or limited mobility after a heart attack, you are entitled to support. The system is regulated differently in Germany and Austria, but provides you with important benefits in both countries.

In Germany: The degree of care

In Germany, support is provided via the level-of-care regulated. If your relative's independence is permanently restricted, an application can be made to the care insurance fund.

  • Application: You submit the application to the care insurance fund. This is followed by an assessment by the Medical Service (MD), which determines the degree of restriction.
  • Benefits: Depending on your care level, you are entitled to various benefits that provide you with financial and organizational relief.

 

In Austria: The care level

In Austria, the amount of financial support provided by the nursing allowance about the Care level specified.

  • Application: The application for care allowance is submitted to the competent body (pension insurance institution). An assessor then determines the actual need for care.
  • Benefits: The care allowance is a monthly financial benefit that can be used flexibly to organize care.

 

Services at a glance: What you are entitled to

Care services: Germany vs. Austria

performance Germany (degree of care) Austria (care level)
Financial performance Care allowance (monthly payment) Care allowance (monthly payment)
relief Preventive care (annual amount for time out) Substitute care (allowances, e.g. for vacation)
Auxiliary means Subsidies for care aids (e.g. rollator, care bed) Subsidies for care aids (e.g. rollator, care bed)
Professional support Outpatient services and day care Mobile services and day care

 

You are important too: Self-care for caregivers

Care means responsibility - but not sacrifice. Take care of your own health to stay strong in the long term.

  • Get support: Plan time out and use services such as outpatient care services or 24-hour care.
  • Talk about it: Talk to friends, other relatives or counselling services. You are not alone!
  • Inform yourself: Take part in care courses offered by health insurance companies.

If you feel overwhelmed or need support with the application process, you can contact advice centres or your health or pension insurance provider. They will help you find the right path.

 

Graphic of nurse Nora with a stethoscope around her neck and the text 'Nora's conclusion' on a green banner. Closing remark or summary in the health sector.

Care with security and trust! The care heart attack begins with understanding - and thrives on attention, structure and heart. As a relative, you can make a decisive difference - if you know what is important.

Let yourself be supported, stay informed and take care of yourself too. Because good care can only succeed if everyone involved feels safe. At noracares, you will find experienced caregivers who will relieve you and ensure safety and security.

Together we can do this.

 

A turquoise banner with white text that reads 'Nora's Frequently Asked Questions'. On the right is an illustrated avatar figure of a nurse with blonde hair wearing a turquoise nurse's cap with a white cross, a white collar and a stethoscope around her neck
Regular medication, blood pressure monitoring, rest and a heart-healthy diet are crucial. Observe any changes and act early.
Provide support in everyday life, plan fixed routines, pay attention to symptoms and don't overburden the person affected or yourself.
Mobilization, vital sign monitoring, nutrition, medication and emotional stability are the most important care measures after a heart attack.
If you have permanent physical or mental limitations, you can apply for a care degree. An assessment by the MD in Germany or MEDIC in Austria determines the classification.
Care allowance, respite care services, care courses, advice centers and support from outpatient services or 24-hour care are all possible forms of help for family caregivers.

 

Graphic logo of Nora's treasure trove of knowledge, a collection of information for nursing staff. Ideal for presenting nursing knowledge and advice.
  • Heart attack (myocardial infarction): A medical emergency in which part of the heart muscle dies due to a lack of blood supply.
  • Myocardium:The heart muscle.
  • Plaque: Deposition on the walls of the arteries, which leads to their narrowing and can trigger cardiovascular disease.
  • Vital signs:Important medical signs such as pulse, blood pressure, respiratory rate and body temperature that indicate the state of health.
  • Thrombosis:The formation of a blood clot in a blood vessel that can obstruct blood flow.
  • Nurse:in:A healthcare professional who cares for the health and well-being of patients.

 

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