Why Place Aspirin Under the Tongue During a Heart Attack: Emergency Response Techniques

In emergency situations, placing an aspirin under the tongue of a heart attack patient is a common and effective practice. This guide explains the reasons behind this protocol, its benefits, and who can administer such medication.

Rapid Absorption and Sublingual Administration

The practice of placing an aspirin under the tongue (sublingual administration) is a widely recognized emergency response technique for heart attack patients. Unlike oral administration, this method allows for rapid absorption, which helps to quickly enter the patient's bloodstream.

Antiplatelet Effect and Blood Clot Prevention

Aspirin works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, which means it helps prevent blood clots from forming. Platelets are vital components of blood that help blood to clot; however, in the case of a heart attack, these clots can block the coronary arteries, causing the pain and damage associated with a heart attack. By inhibiting platelets, aspirin can significantly reduce the risk of further clot formation and potential blockages, which is crucial during a cardiac event.

Reduction of Ischemia and Preserving Heart Function

The administration of aspirin under the tongue can help to reduce ischemia, or the reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. By preventing further clot formation, aspirin can improve blood flow to the heart, which can minimize damage and preserve heart function during a heart attack. This is particularly important as ischemia can lead to irreversible damage to the heart muscle if not mitigated promptly.

Common Protocol and Professional Help

Emergency medical guidelines often recommend aspirin as part of the initial management of suspected acute myocardial infarction (AMI) due to its effectiveness and low cost. However, it's important to note that while aspirin can be beneficial, it should only be administered if there are no contraindications such as allergies to aspirin or certain bleeding disorders. In any emergency situation, it is always best to call for professional medical help immediately. Only trained medical professionals or immediate care providers should administer medications in such situations.

Understanding Angina: A Subset of Cardiac Symptoms

A heart attack can often be preceded by angina, a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort due to temporary reduced blood flow to the heart. During exertion, people with angina may experience chest pain as the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygenated blood. This situation typically resolves with rest.

Nitroglycerine (GTN) is a common medication prescribed for angina. GTN is a vasodilator, meaning it opens up blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow through these narrow points in the heart. The tablet is placed under the tongue to facilitate slow absorption, making it effective for managing angina symptoms.

Side Effects of Nitroglycerine

It's worth noting that GTN, while effective, can have side effects. One of the more common side effects is a "big bass drum headache." This side effect occurs due to the sudden dilation of blood vessels, which can cause a sensation similar to a throbbing headache.

Understanding these emergency protocols is crucial for both medical professionals and the general public. Prompt and correct administration of medications in the case of a heart attack can significantly improve outcomes and save lives.