What worry can do if you have Angina

Hi I was diagnosed with Angina in 2008 since then I have not really had any problems so just keep taking the medicine. I have a build up in the Left Anterior Descending Artery.

My worry is that over the last 3 years I have had the worry of my husband being diagnosed with cancer which we hope would go into remission unfortunately it did not and now he has incurable cancer so we are up and down for his treatment to the Royal Marsden. My concern is how this is affecting me and my own condition. I find that I am doing a lot of comfort eating and not the best food, I do go to exercise classes but sometimes that not possible when my husband is having treatment. I am also having counselling. Also my blood pressure can be very up and down.

I have let my doctor and cardiologist know what is going on and I am doing my best to keep on top of it.

My question has anyone else been in this situation and what did they do.

Lesley

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

There are two types of stress; positive stress and negative stress. Positive stress can make you more productive, improve your self-confidence and make you healthier. Negative stress has the opposite effect. Examples of positive stress are good news, completing something on time, etc. Negative stress can be caused by traumatic event (as it your case), poor time management, etc. Too much positive stress can tip you over into negative stress. A couple of times negative stress has given me angina and it is best to try and avoid it. In your situation it is very hard and it may be worth talking to your GP, a cancer charity or the BHF nurses.

As regards eating do try to eat healthily. To much sugar and fat could cause wait gain and, potentially, make the narrowings worse. You should also talk to your doctor about your BP – you may need a change of medication.

Good luck with it all.

[stevejb1810]

I have to agree with MichaelJH. The situation you find yourself in is understandably emotionally draining and very stressful, in a negative way. This bad stress will likely be increasing your cortisol levels which can increase weight gain, increase you blood pressure etc. I know it’s easier for us to say this, than it is to do but try to relax as much as you can. Make sure you get some good quality sleep (also easier said than done). Try some relaxation techniques - anything to try and bring your stress levels down. On the food front, I know eating in hospital cafes is something of a dietary disaster area, but force yourself and eat healthily and sensibly- gaining weight will become an issue for you later and it’s one you could probably do without.

Best wishes at this difficult time

Steve

[sandrann]

Hi there I was wondering if eating a few carrot sticks..or celery etc if you're not intolerant to them may be a better way of comfort eating.. these could also be prepared and taken with you when going to the hospital etc with your husband..a slightly healthier option..are you able to do crosswords or similar puzzles to help you focus on and release a little of the stress you're taking on? Sleep is very important in our healing and releasing any stress..if and when you get the chance to have a nap may I suggest you take it..your well being is important. There are nurses on here that can advise you especially if you're unable to chat with your GP.

Sending you hugs.