Managed my first hill walk at the weekend

[ymcwhirr]

I just wanted to share this with the community on here. I was hospitalised for a week 9 months ago, with a permanent AF heart rate racing away at 170 bpm. Needless to say, it took its toll on my body. I could hardly walk 10 metres without feeling awful. This was a life-changer for me, as I loved my hills and the outdoors. The road to recovery has been long and painful, but I have been determined to get back to how I used to be. The medicaiton has finally stablised the heart and I await my referral to an EP. We went camping at Glen Etive at the weekend, and I managed to climb a munro - first one since the attack. It wasn't easy, and I suffered the next day, but very very elated to have managed it.

[BobD Volunteer]

Never tried Munros but used to do a lot of fell walking in the Lake District I'm jealous as my knees have gone now. Well done.

Bob

[Rellim296]

Yes, Congratulations! I think this is a triumph in several different ways: Firstly you evidently have gained the stamina now to achieve such great heights. You have the determination to carry on when the going gets tougher and you had faith in yourself just setting off and visualising the possibility of success. These achievements are not merely physical but demand a positive attitude and self belief and I too am jealous because I tend to stay at home, even though I live in the Lake District.

[ymcwhirr]

Very kind comments, thank you. I think you are so correct about positive attitude. It's been the one thing that's seen me through it. Laughter as well! I still remember trying to bike round Whinlatter a couple of years ago whilst heart was in AF. Beautiful part of the country, but goodness, that day was a struggle.

[Finvola]

Well done you!! That's an achievement to be proud of and, having done it once you know it can be done again.

It must be a superb feeling!

[Hidden]

Well done ymcwhirr. I've been in a similar boat in that I was ill for about a year with arrhythmia recently, then they found some drugs that have worked on me and put me back to normal. But I'd lost my fitness during that year, and whereas I could walk forever, even after being put right, I found walking hard. But now, after a few months of slowly building up, I'm somewhere near to getting back how I was. But a few more months to go I feel.

It's really great.

Koll

[jeanjeannie50]

Great achievement. It's such a lovely feeling isn't t? I've experienced the same and am still trying to build my stamina up more. Right now I can walk about 4-5 miles comfortable - even if it's hilly. However if I stop during a walk and have something to eat, then my heart will start complaining and extreme exhaustion will set in. I try to set off early morning and delay lunch if I have to. Have you noticed if eating (perhaps lunch) affects your stamina?

[ymcwhirr]

Interesting points made, so thanks for that. I would completely agree about the stamina. That causes me the biggest hurdle. Psychologically, I try to put mind over matter. But sometimes, I just need to accept it. I find that setting off is a struggle - dizzy spells, tired, body aches. That lasts about 5 to 10 minutes, and then I'm fine. But, if I rest for much more than a few minutes, the symptoms return, and the cycle repeats. So I guess it's a case of keeping going and battling through as it does get easier. I'm really hoping that stamina will build over time. Ever the optimist! Really appreciate the replies and hearing other peoples' perspectives.

[Buffafly]

Thanks for the encouragement! Very inspiring.