How can I take care of myself?

• Follow your doctor's treatment plan.
• Eat healthy foods that are low in fat and salt.
• Keep your cholesterol at a normal level.
• Keep your blood pressure in a normal range.
• Lose weight if you need to. Stay at a healthy weight.
• Begin exercise when your doctor tells you it's OK. Increase your exercise according to your doctor's directions.
• Don't smoke.
• Carry your medicine with you. Learn how to take it. It will help to have a list of the names of each medicine and how much and when you should take it.
• Follow your doctor's instructions for taking your medicines and having follow-up appointments.

Get specific instructions from your doctor on how to take care of yourself when you have chest pain, including what medicines you should take, when to call your doctor, and when to call 911.

Getting help right away when you are having a heart attack improves your chances of staying alive. It may also help keep your heart from being damaged.