Second heart attack risk

[barniecroft]

Another question I have concerning my recent HA. The cardiologist has told me that I have a higher risk of a second heart attack . Why is this. I have had a stent fitted and am on drugs. Why is there such a risk when seemingly I have treatment to cover any problems. If the blockage has been cleared then surely it can't re-block where the stent is. I'm a bit confused

[jimmyq]

Statistically, your chances of having another HA are greater now. The longer you go without one the safer you will be. I hope that makes sense.

What are you doing to avoid another one?

[barniecroft in reply to jimmyq]

Trying to do all the right things like meds etc, it was really a question of why the statistics are higher, what is the factor that makes that risk higher?

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

As JimmyQ has said there is an increased risk of HA or stroke post HA, stents, bypass, ICD fitment, etc. This is part of the reason there are various length driving bans post treatment.

This risk is minimised if you take the prescribed medication, exercise as advised (do accept offer of rehab) and make lifestyle changes as appropriate. I know of one person who had been back for further stents twice since being originally treatment. The message about healthy eating and not smoking just does not sink in!!!

[Effiecat in reply to MichaelJH]

Im not sure this came out as you meant! I don’t think smoking and unhealthy eating after stents are the reason people need more stents!

Some are lucky and the right stents do the job first time. But I’ve had nine stents spread over a three year period. It took the Docs that long and lots of drug juggling to get me some stability.

Smoking and unhealthy eating played no part.