- In first episode of the "
Sex and the City " reboot, Mr. Big dies suddenly of a heart attack. - Cardiologists say Carrie Bradshaw could have done more to save him by calling 911 or doing CPR.
"Sex and the City" fans were stunned after the series reboot, "
Now, cardiologists are saying Big's wife, series protagonist Carrie Bradshaw, could have done more to prevent the tragedy.
"In true Sex and the City fashion, many 'can't help but wonder …' could Carrie have saved Big? Scientifically speaking, that is unclear – the script doesn't provide many details," the American Heart Association (AHA) wrote in a press release. "However, Carrie could have taken specific actions to help the situation."
Preventative measures like a healthy lifestyle and quick on-the-spot response can help avert disaster when it comes to
A quick response to heart attacks can save lives
As her husband was dying in her arms, Bradshaw should have been dialing 911 or attempting CPR, according to the AHA.
If an ambulance isn't available, experts recommend driving to the hospital immediately. It can help you prepare for a medical emergency if you know in advance which hospital is closest to you.
The Mayo Clinic also recommends that if patients are conscious after a heart attack, they should chew and swallow an aspirin while waiting for help to prevent blood from clotting.
If someone collapses and is unresponsive, you can perform CPR by applying rhythmic pressure to the chest area.
"Push hard and fast in the center of the chest to the beat of a song with 100-120 beats per minute, like the Bee Gees' 'Stayin' Alive' or Beyoncé's 'Crazy in Love,'" the AHA recommends.
Experts say lifestyle factors, not the bike, likely contributed to Big's death
Although Big's death was preceded by a high-intensity ride on his beloved Peloton, most people don't have to worry about their exercise bike jeopardizing heart
"Exercise is medicine, and there is no question that moderate to vigorous physical activity is beneficial to overall cardiovascular health," Barry A. Franklin, professor of physiology at Wayne State University School of Medicine, said in a previous AHA statement.
Big's exercise habits might have even bought him more time. Evidence suggests people are more likely to survive a heart attack if they are physically active on a regular basis. One study found people who do high levels of recreational exercise had a 45% lower risk of dying on the spot, and were 36% less likely to die of complications within the next 28 days.
However, his diet, drinking, and smoking habits were likely culprits in his risk of heart attack, according to Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum, a member of Peloton's Health & Wellness Advisory Council.
"Mr. Big lived what many would call an extravagant lifestyle - including cocktails, cigars, and big steaks - and was at serious risk as he had a previous cardiac event in Season 6. These lifestyle choices and perhaps even his family history, which often is a significant factor, were the likely cause of his death," Steinbaum told Insider.