Cough CPR: Can You Really Save Yourself from a Heart Attack?
You’ve probably seen the claim before. Someone says, “If you’re having a heart attack and alone, just cough hard and fast to keep your heart beating.”
It sounds like a life-saving trick. But is it true? Can coughing really save your life during a heart attack?
Let’s separate fact from fiction.
What is “Cough CPR”?
The idea behind “Cough CPR” is simple. If you suddenly feel your heart stop or experience severe chest pain, you’re supposed to:
✔️ Take a deep breath.
✔️ Cough forcefully every 2 seconds.
✔️ Repeat until help arrives or your heart stabilizes.
Some claim this action keeps oxygen flowing and forces the heart to keep beating. But does it really work?
The Truth About Cough CPR
🚨 MYTH: Cough CPR can save your life during a heart attack.
✅ FACT: Cough CPR is NOT a recommended response for a heart attack.
Here’s why:
- Heart Attacks Are NOT the Same as Cardiac Arrest
- A heart attack happens when a blocked artery reduces blood flow to the heart. The heart is still beating, so coughing doesn’t help.
- Cardiac arrest is when the heart stops beating completely. In this case, a strong cough won’t restart the heart.
- Cough CPR Is Only Used in Hospitals
- Doctors sometimes use “cough CPR” in a controlled medical setting—like when a patient is under constant heart monitoring.
- But outside of a hospital? There’s no evidence it works.
- Coughing Could Waste Precious Time
- If you’re having a heart attack, wasting time coughing instead of calling 911 could be deadly.
- Every minute matters. Immediate treatment saves lives.
What Should You Do Instead?
If you think you’re having a heart attack, follow these steps:
1️⃣ Call 911 immediately. Time is critical. Paramedics can start treatment on the way to the hospital.
2️⃣ Chew an aspirin (if not allergic). It helps thin your blood and improve circulation.
3️⃣ Stay as calm as possible. Rest and avoid sudden movement.
4️⃣ If you stop breathing, you need CPR. Someone nearby should start chest compressions until help arrives.
The Bottom Line: Cough CPR is a Dangerous Myth
🚫 Coughing won’t stop a heart attack.
🚫 It won’t restart a stopped heart.
🚫 It’s not a substitute for real CPR.
Instead, the best way to save a life is to learn real CPR.
Get CPR Certified—Be Prepared for Real Emergencies
Heart attacks and cardiac arrests happen every day. Do you know what to do? Learn real, proven life-saving skills with Arise Safety and CPR.
📍 Sign up for a class: Register here
📍 Need group training? Visit our website
📍 Have questions? Contact us!
📧 Email: contact@arisesafety.com
📞 Call/Text: 317-961-1480
Don’t fall for myths. Get trained. Get certified. Be ready. 🚑💙
