Emergency
Here we describe the symptoms of some possible emergency situations involving the cardiovascular system.
In the first aid section, we provide a reminder of the initial steps to take. Most people will have completed a first aid course at some point when obtaining their driving licence. For many, however, this was years ago, and much of what they learned has been forgotten. Some associate this knowledge only with road traffic emergencies. They are often barely aware that the need to provide assistance can arise in everyday life too, and far more frequently. Most emergencies occur in a private setting. The person affected is not an anonymous stranger, but a partner, neighbour or friend - perhaps even your own parent or child, or you yourself. It is all too easy to turn a blind eye to the fact that this could happen. And people “forget” to refresh their first aid training regularly, as recommended every two to three years.
So that you aren't helpless and unable to help when it matters, we'll review some first aid measures.
Important: This does not replace taking a refresher first aid course!
It's equally important not to be afraid to help.
- Observe the precautions for self-protection! In addition to the disposable gloves found in every first aid kit, there are, for example, ventilation aids that reduce the hesitation to cover another person's mouth or nose with your own. These are available in pharmacies, where you can also get advice.
- Don't fail to provide help because you're afraid of doing something wrong-or because you're worried about legal consequences. As long as you act in good faith and to the best of your knowledge, do not act with gross negligence, and do not intentionally harm the victim, you need not fear any repercussions. Failure to provide assistance, however, is a criminal offense (PDF: Legal questions about first aid provided by first responders (GUV))!
- Don't be afraid of possibly embarrassing yourself! Unfortunately, the willingness to help decreases as the number of potential helpers present increases. It's all too easy to justify inaction with thoughts like: 'Why should I be the one to help? There are so many others here.' Or: 'If nobody is doing anything, it can't be that bad.' Ignore those thoughts. Be brave! Even if everyone else just watches: be the person who steps out of the crowd, helps, and maybe saves a life!
Source:
This article is from Tensana – the leading app since 2011, helping hundreds of thousands of people monitor their blood pressure every day.
Our content is based on carefully researched, evidence-based data and is continuously updated (as of 02/2026).
Author Sabine Croci is a qualified medical assistant with many years of experience in internal medicine and cardiology practices as well as outpatient care, and has headed the specialist editorial team at Tensana since 2015. Thanks to her extensive additional qualifications as an emergency medical technician, first responder, and in various areas of therapy and emergency care, she provides well-founded, practical, and reliably verified information.
Author Sabine Croci is a qualified medical assistant with many years of experience in internal medicine and cardiology practices as well as outpatient care, and has headed the specialist editorial team at Tensana since 2015. Thanks to her extensive additional qualifications as an emergency medical technician, first responder, and in various areas of therapy and emergency care, she provides well-founded, practical, and reliably verified information.
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