Final answer:
To respond to a heart attack, signs must be recognized promptly, followed by the immediate administration of emergency treatments such as aspirin, nitroglycerine, or the use of an AED. Hypertension is a key risk factor, and recovery depends on the speed of treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is crucial to recognize the signs of a heart attack and to act immediately by administering emergency treatment. Symptoms may vary between males and females, and a major risk factor to be aware of is hypertension. A heart attack occurs when a blood vessel is blocked, preventing blood from reaching the heart and causing cardiac muscle damage, which can be irreversible.
An automated external defibrillator (AED) can be life-saving during cardiac arrest by providing an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal rhythm, while administering supplemental oxygen can also be beneficial.