I had pain and I took nitro, so it was a bit hard before I
could have breakfast, and then I thought I should lie down
on the couch. But I still had pain, so I took somemore doses
of nitro and lay down. I lay down for about 15 to 20minutes,
but it did not go away. (i10)
Some participants called for an ambulance almost
immediately after the onset of symptoms, whereas others
waited. Some called the primary healthcare center or
healthcare information and were later referred to the
hospital. This latter action was time-consuming and delayed participants’ contact with healthcare personnel.
Thosewhowere not alone at onset commonly described
their symptoms to their companion(s), who then either
contributed as a decision support or made the final decision to seek medical care and call for help. Some participants who were alone at onset contacted a relative
who made sure that healthcare was sought, either by
calling an ambulance or taking their ill relative to the
emergency department.