Hi everyone. I’m 47, considered myself to be (very) fit and strong for my age - played 11a side football until 45. Swam 2 to 3 times a week. One day while out shopping had an incredible back pain - something that repeated over a couple of months. Was given a clean bill of health after a hospital visit in Atlanta (I collapsed on a work trip). They told me it was muscular.
After lots of physio, massages and multiple attacks of this pain a surgeon finally referred me back to cardiology, where it was found my main artery was totally blocked. Big shock, but a couple of months on and I’ve had a stent inserted (just before Xmas).
I’m not brave. After the initial relief that the stent is in - I’m worrying about all sorts of things. It’s a little uncomfortable still in my chest (not where my angina pain was). So I’m not pushing myself yet.
How long before I try and attempt a swim? Should i wait for the discomfort to pass?
Thank you and hello. Nice to find this place. I’ve been driving my girlfriend round the twist with all my panic / negative thoughts.
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DavidG1971
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Hi PB, don't worry, it's normal. You only had it done couple of weeks ago and they advise you not to even drive in the first week.
I got stended 3 months ago with 3 stents (I'm 46 y.o. male) and first couple of weeks just walked a bit, then started a light jog and today I've run 10K in 63 minutes. Two days ago I run 5K in 28:14, so it gets better. Every now and again I *think* I can feel my stents and a slightest pain in the chest makes you think - is this it? But it passes and you carry on.
Just take it easy, you need to slowly build up. Being that you already fit, it shouldn't take you long to get to full fitness. As for swimming, I don't really know. Maybe you could do a light breast stroke but listen to your breath. You should be able to talk or you doing it too hard. That's what cardiac nurse told me after I had my stents, just before they discharged me from the hospital. When I run, I sometimes count to 10 and listening to my voice. If I sound OK, I carry on if the voice is broken, I slow down and stop. That kind of stuff. I hope this helps.
Thanks for the reply. That tweak in the chest is terrifying (real or not). I’m imagining that the stent is somehow moving / damaging the artery. Funny - I feel a lot more fragile now than i did before. Yet I was swimming and playing 7 a side with a closed artery. Logically - I’m a lot better off now, so just need my brain to catch up. Thanks for your story - helps a lot.
Oh, it's real enough. Today on my 6th or 7th kilometre I felt (and almost heard) a loud thud from the middle of my chest. Like something just tried to get out. I nearly c*****d myself for a second. But I didn't stop there, just slowed right down to a trot, checked my HM monitor and it was showing something normal (135BPM or something) and I sped up again. But I'll take it slow next few days. I will take light weights, do a bit of planking or I may look at some yoga videos on YT...
I don't want to live in fear for the rest of my life so I try not to think too much about it. Being here (on this forum) doesn't exactly reflects that but there you go.
I find my smartwatch with HR monitor gives me plenty reassurance and I'd advise you to get one if you can. Every time you "think you are dying", just look at the thing, it'll say something like 58bpm if you are on some type of BB as I am and it'll put you right back at ease.
Hello PB - try googling 'exercise after stent uk'. This will show a number of features from British Heart Foundation and various UK Hospital Trusts which will guide you on best practice. Some chest discomfort is normal with most people until stents settle and you become accustomed to different sensations. Have you been contacted by the Cardio Rehab Team linked to your local hospital? They will offer a 6 week programme of cardio rehab consisting of talks, information and support. I found the program really useful and reassuring. On the question of swimming I was surprised to be told that although it is a great form of exercise you should avoid initially (discuss with rehab team) as the pressure of the water can exert additional strain on the heart. Try and be patient with yourself. If you are used to exercising in the past you may be tempted to launch straight into activity. Always warm up first even when you go for a walk which is a good start. Walk slowly for 10 minutes then increase the pace to feel slightly out of breath. At the end of your walk slow the pace again for 5 - 10 minutes. It's tempting not to bother but this avoids going from exercise mode when the heart is working harder to suddenly slowing when there is a risk that blood can pool in your arteries. You sound fairly fit and this will stand you in good stead you just need to rebuild some confidence which will come as you gain knowledge and get back to fitness. Remember you can keep posting questions if you have some specific areas of concern or just want more reassurance
Cardio rehab is the best! It will give you the confidence to take on more activity and allow you access to staff who know what you are going through. The first phase is very easy and you may be tempted to skip it - don't. It's all about building up your exercise level under supervision. Phase 2 is gym work also under supervision.
I had several weeks of what I thought was chest pain post stenting. This eased as I got back into daily activities. Just rest when you need to and let things settle for a few months.
Totally normal for you to feel like that. Got 4 stents 10 months ago and I’m now in the best shape of my life at 57 years old. Take it slow and 6 months from now you’ll feel like your old self. It’s important once you recover to the exercise regularly so you know whether you have any problems. As my Dr says don’t be a cardiac cripple. You’ve been given a second chance make the most of it and enjoy life! 🤗
You're on the mend but take your time, listen to what you body tells you,enjoy Rehab (CR nurses were gems) , follow meds regime. I do get "niggles" now and again (1 stent for 90% LAD blockage 9 months ago). Stay close to this forum its a great place with great advice from great people. Wishing you well on your recovery.
Hi Pernera Beach. All of what you describe is totally how I experienced my HA and post stent pains/sensations. And they took a while to go away completely. Would totally support the replies that you’ve had to your great question - especially going to the cardio rehab sessions. I was really sceptical but found they helped a lot. In terms of exercise I strongly suggest you take it easy until you’ve spoken to the cardio rehab team. And if you want to get started sooner then give them a call. When I had my sessions two years ago they strongly advised that we did not go swimming in the immediate aftermath. If I remember rightly exercising in a prone position can put added strain on your system and the effect of the water on your body can mask a heart attack. I’m sure they would advise that this is something you work towards at this stage.
Good luck. If you find that it’s getting you down mentally then I strongly suggest you talk to the cardiology nurses about counselling options. They really do help.
Thanks on the swimming advice. When I left hospital they said I could try swimming after a couple of weeks. But I’ll wait until I’ve seen the rehab team.
Hi David (apols I got you name wrong in my reply) Maybe it's OK for you to do this as you didn't have a Heart Attack? Hope you get back to doing what you enjoy as quickly as possible. It's really positive that you caught this before any damage was done.
Hi PB, as the others say it’s normal and give yourself time. Be patient one step at a time. As for the niggles from stent to be honest 2.5yrs later I still get them. Especially when tired or under pressure. I raised it hundreds of time with either GP or cardiologist, no answer as such. It’s almost as if I can ‘feel’ in there.
Yet I’ve been stress tested three times, the last almost flat out, and not a single adverse reading,
It may just be something we have to live with but don’t be a cardiac cripple, build up slowly, go to rehab etc. But try and get on with life otherwise what was point if surviving.
That’s good it will help. I only see my cardiologist every 6 months or so. Private health used to pay but not ongoin as no treatment so not sure when I’ll see him again. However last April he refused to give me a stress test, said I tired him out! However I don’t want him becoming complacent as in early days we discussed how it would be a good benchmark to see if any future blockages.
I had 25mins CPR which may explains omnipresent aches and pIns, I guess like any injury, who knows!
I was similar age to you, was 46, cycling 200 miles per week, never ever smoked, not really eaten junk food . I had my OHCA whilst cycling in middle of no where. So I understand how shocked you are.
Time really does help but use that time to re calibrate. See if there’s anything you can tweak. And just expect to do a little less but still enjoy those things you enjoy.
Ironically for me it’s been a good thing other than my tops times. I’m more relaxed, less pressure for chasing times on bike etc. I do t stress much at work, as what’s worse that can happen! What a nonsense always chasing deadlines with too little resource we can never make! More to life.
So I guess I’m reiterating sameness point, in end you will feel good.
Great answer. I was bricking it on my first day of Rehab, not sure if it was despite of or because of my previous keep-fit history. One of the Nurses sat me down and said "look, you have had the immediate problem fixed by the stents, so all you have to do is make any lifestyle changes necessary, take the drugs as necessary and just get on with it. Once you make a start and get to know the staff and other folks there you will feel 100% better.
You have actually been lucky! No heart attack, so no loss of heart muscle, so every chance to return to your old fitness. But, as others have said....slowly! You’ve also had a real shock and lots to think about and adjust to.
As to your pain. I was told the heart ‘dislikes being messed about with’, so takes a while to settle down after stents.
But it’s v natural to feel worried, particularly after you were reassured it wasn’t your heart, but muscle strain. It will take time for your confidence to return.
Thank you. Don’t feel so daft now. I tried to hoover the house after a week and got a light stabbing pain - felt such a weakling. Stopped doing things for a couple of days it scared me so much.
I was told it was just heart burn then 2 days later cardiac arrest! GP refused to give me referral letter for private health insurance too! Do best yourself up, if I look back to my first few weeks out of hospital - wow I was scared to be alone, petrified to walk around the block. But then slowly built on small gains. Now I’m back cycling - junior docs told me on discharge id never cycle again! My cardiologist was cross when he heard that. I go to gym, walk in mountains, ski and snowboard. Just lowered my expectations. Not becAuse I don’t have more capacity but because I’m content.
I do still get anxious but seldom, the aches and pains remind me to not push too hard.
So give yourself time, enjoy the rest & attention .
Hello, I had my heart attack in June last year and like you was told at à French hospital it was not my heart( I was working with U20 All Blacks). I was a 150 mile a week cyclist and when not cycling I was in the gym.
2 stents later and nearly 6 months on I am back doing what I did before.
So it does get better.
After my stents , every little twinge was another heart attack. I even went back to A and E once.
I still get scared and worry about more attacks but I comfort myself by thinking if it was going to happen, it would happen while I was on my bike.
I took it slowly and only walked for the first month, building up the speed and duration of my walks. Always guided by how you feel.
The brain is so powerful and can really hold you back from doing the things you enjoy. Be guided by how you feel and please don’t let stents define you.
We all have a different experience but also we have a common thread.
Thanks Neil - Having it overseas is a nightmare. Being in Atlanta was scary enough...thinking you might be stuck out there away from family. Paris must have been equally alien. I’ve got a work trip to Orlando / Atlanta in 2 weeks time and not booked my flights yet. Tossing around in my head if I’m strong enough.
I had the same thoughts and wanted to get back to France to my French girlfriend.
I left it 6 weeks and then just thought I can’t live in fear all of the time and cannot afford to have a cardiologist with me, so just need to try and move forward.
Now we both know what our problem was. We are defo better than before the stents and if we need to get medical treatment we can speak with more understanding.
Just make sure you have your meds and I guess you insurance is good.
It’s a shame sometimes we can’t all meet up.
I can’t advise you what to do but it’s just another hurdle we have to take in our recovery.
I am going to celebrate my year after HA with a visit to my family in NZ.
Hi, I had a single stent in August aged 49. Always been a stocky strong guy all my life. Only pain I ever experienced prior to it was one angina attack which I thought was indigestion but a constant sensation of a finger gently touching my chest. Had the stent and the biggest thing for me was the overwhelming sensation of feeling vunerable and weak and a sense of failure. Went to a cardio rehab session (basically a chat with a nice man who’d had similar experiences). We chatted and basically said your fixed. If you look after yourself your going to be fine and have a long life. Now get living. You say you’re not brave but you are going to be. It’s very early days. It takes time to settle down but you’re going to be just fine. The advice is 14 days before working. But the psychological side takes a bit longer. Best wishes.
Thank you. ‘Vulnerable and weak’ really sums it up. Appreciate the reply.
Wow fantastic thread! and very pertinent as far as I am concerned. Like others have said wait until you go to Rehab it's brilliant. Regarding the stents, I totally echo what has been said - I was really worried about the odd feeling right in the middle of my chest, until the subject came up during a discussion (at Rehab) where it transpired that 2 other guys had the same. It doesn't seem to affect everyone though for some reason. I was worried that it was damage from the pretty bad Angina I had suffered or even some problems with the Statins, but now know it's the stent(s). I think the heart does let you know that it has been messed with, the very slight discomfort is gradually going away but I can still tell it's there 3 months later, especially after exertion. At the end of the day its still an invasive procedure despite the easily assumed impression that its like going to kwik-fit.
It's astonishing how many posts on this forum begin with very similar words. I suspect that's a clue as to the psychological issues that many newly diagnosed heart patients are confronting.
They used to have a certain image of themselves, but that image has been torn up and there's little confidence or trust in the new self-image they've been handed. They're grieving for the loss of the person they once imagined themselves to be.
I don't know what the solution is, but I've listened to my wife (who is a councillor) talk about trauma patients. Seems to me that there are many parallels, not least that it's a long job, rebuilding a reliable, positive image of yourself one small brick at a time. Maybe that's what you should look for, the small victories and achievements that are the raw materials for the rebuilt you?
That’s pretty accurate. There’s not a lot left of the old me at the moment. Friends are all trying their best - but it’s a slap on the back and ‘great to see you looking so well.’ I feel ungrateful for not feeling more positive about it all. Only a few people who are comfortable hearing how broken you are mentally. Which is why this group is such a find. I can start to separate genuine weakness from the normal process.
One thing you, like myself should learn from your experience is that exercise, keeping fit does not stave of health problems. I became hooked on the propaganda that pushing to the limit was good. It is now emerging that to much exercise is actually damaging to the heart I was told this by someone in cardiology. Subsequently went online. He was telling the truth.I am 74 got heart problems two new knees plus by ventricular pacemaker. Now waiting in pain for new hip. All around me are non exercising friends same age as me are still doing what they want. all my keep fit mates are dead from various complaints I am walking with elbow crutches. How embarrassing. The keep fit crusade is a big con millions invested in gyms clothing and machinery. I believed, what a mug
Thanks - I’ve already had 2 minor knee ops from football, so won’t be overloading them. If I can swim again, play golf and live to a decent age, I’ll call that a win.
Hello again David I have just belatedly read other replies to your e mail. I am amazed how many exercise addicts are having heart trouble. As I said in previous reply evidence is emerging that to much exercise is very bad for the heart This I understand is to do with free radicals which are in the air we breath.According to one medical survey I read They damage a membrane in the heart. It is amazing that people are trying to get back to doing what caused their problem in the first place.Quite simply you do not need to raise your heart rate to high levels over and over again.This high heart rate thing as become a mantra in our culture.I was in hospital with a guy who had run 6 London marathons.He had just had cardio version, as had I. He also had a pacemaker in.He was bemused thinking he had done what as become standard belief. It is wrong.As I previously said we have been brain washed into the exercise obsession. It is as if the quicker you can run a ten k course the longer you will live, and what a superior person you are compered to the next bloke. I have walked that walk and am now reaping the reward
What exactly do you mean by "pushing to the limit" and who was this person in Cardiology who said too much exercise is damaging for the heart? My mother in law is the same age as you and has also got similar problems, never exercised in her life. I think we have to be careful here not to put the wrong messages out.
There was a program on tv which said the latest thought with regard to fitness was that get on you exercise bike or cross trainer and get your heart rate up as high as you can keep it going until lactic acid in muscles stop you, resting for a couple of minutes then going again.Or when two cyclists are battling on a mountain stage and one cracks.The chap who is in checks my pacemaker was the one who told me. I have subsequently read two long term surveys one over 25 year period, the results of which surprised the people running it contrary to their expectations the people who exercised over seven and half hours a week where worse heart wise than those who exercised less than two and half hours a week. I agree there are anomalies within all things. A close friend of mine recently died of cancer non smoker non drinker good diet. 52 years of age. I have run 3 marathons and many half marathons been up 13 Munro in Scotland been to gyms looked after my diet never smoked had a few beers with mates. Had cardio version three times in last 10 years to correct atrial fibrillation now a pacemaker to increase my low heart rate 42 bpm ,Told It was dangerously low for someone my age told I was at high risk of sudden heart failure.I sincerely believed in info of exercise for a long and healthy life,
Despite living among people older than myself who have just lived never done what would be considered exercise. Three who are 85 and 86 and 87 just down the road, one my brother in law. Many letters posted on this page are saying that they have exercised regularly and STILL had heart attacks.
We all know people who do all the right things and are still unfortunate enough to draw the wrong card. Likewise some people seem to cheat it by doing all the wrong things, life ain't fair. But I believe the overwhelming evidence is that regular and sensible exercise within ones own limits, along with a balanced and healthy diet preferably as plant-based as possible, along with the correct medication for the INDIVIDUAL concerned, is the way forward. The exercise regime you have cited is not one I have ever thought of as sensible or had need or reason to follow.
Thanks for replying again . You made me puzzle. The question is where does this overwhelming evidence come from. My gp has never mentioned exercise to me. Nor have any of the people who have done my cardio versions. Nor did the consultant who put my pacemaker in. I have had many ecg several echo cardiograms , and not once been asked about any keep fit regime They have asked about alcohol consumption and smoking. Exercise has never been mentioned. No one said do you run, or go to a gym.There are lots of gym advertising on the television.with sweaty panting people trying to convince you that you should be doing the same. but they are merely trying to sell a product. To push the idea that gasping for breath is good. I was just remembering when I worked on nights down the pit shovelling a load of ripping into the pack hole the air thick with dust gasping for a drink, dust mask full of spittle, cap lamp dancing Dick under the lip swearing at me for going to fast. This must be doing me good (just joking)
I will have to be honest I find you reply here rather confusing. Are you saying that you are having difficulty in finding any evidence that keeping fit, as in exercising regularly (within ones limits) is one of the most beneficial things you can do? The evidence as about as overwhelming as the evidence that smoking is bad for you. Why do you think it is so heavily promoted on the rehab course? Gym memberships may be rising not because of some cynical sales drive but more the fact that people are beginning to realise that we have a serious problem with people who do little or no exercise and eat far too much of often the wrong things and who may be wishing to do something about it. With the greatest respect I don't think the message you are putting out here is very helpful? Sadly your former employment may be more of a cause of your problems, it has certainly claimed the lives of very many people who worked in terrible conditions.
I concur with everything said in these posts. I was very fit, healthy diet, never smoked and moderate drinker. My heart attack was 10 weeks ago and the blockage was too awkward to stent so I'm being managed with medication. From 0 tablets to 9 a day. My self-image was shattered as was my confidence and self esteem. My anxiety levels were sky high and I still feel vulnerable. You're right -everyone says how well you look and I've come to think this is for their reassurance. I was the fittest person most of them knew and it's frightened them that I had a H.A. Finding this forum was the best thing that happened to help calm my anxiety and I urge you to look at it every day and, if you've time, to look at older posts. I have had lots of good advice as well as support and I am definitely regaining confidence although I think my self-image has changed forever!
Thanks for taking the time to write. I’m learning not to overload people who can’t empathise - I was taking it as somewhat of a rejection. It’s not - they just can’t. I would have been the same
I suspect your issues will be echoed in someway by most who get here. I can only support all that's bee written, particularly about taking things slowly. When I overdo the exercise, I pay for it in increased discomfort and pain. That causes worry, (I'm 71). Doing anything which means my arms have to go above my shoulders is problematic and this is nearly 6 months on.
I know I need exercise, but its not exercise for its own sake, it's now to stay alive. Too much is as bad as too little.
So as others have said, listen to your body and obey. Heart issues are life changing, we all know, being here, reading and responding, helps others, but it also will help you to come to terms with what has happened. It will take time.
"I was very fit, healthy diet, never smoked and moderate drinker. My heart attack was 10 weeks ago and the blockage was too awkward to stent so I'm being managed with medication."
There have been a few threads recently exploring this theme.
There are broadly three areas that can help prevent another heart attack. Surgery, medication, and lifestyle changes.
The typical heart patient (overweight, couch potato, etc) can easily get three out of three if they're motivated enough. But someone like yourself, no matter how committed you are, only gets one out of the three. You're basically counting purely on medication to prevent a reoccurrence, and your doctors seem happy with that.
I wonder if that means you're in a minority category of heart patients who aren't getting best in class health care from the NHS? There are a few progressive cardiac care clinics in other countries that seem to specialise in patients like yourself, patients where the root cause of their heart problems really aren't all that obvious. They'll dig and dig and uncover surprising explanations, they will then monitor the degree of atherosclerosis and inflammation to be certain that their remedies are genuinely reducing the patient's underlying risk. If you get the chance read the work of someone like Dr Bradley Bale, as it's astonishing what can drive an otherwise fit patient's heart disease. It could be undiagnosed pre-diabetes or it could be really bizarre explanations like a Niacin deficiency or (believe it or not) chronic gum disease!
I haven’t had any care from NHS yet. I paid to avoid a 2 month wait on the stent ...my brain would have imploded otherwise. I will read up - but unsure what I can do about it. I will read though.
Just to add what others have said you are probably still in shock so be kind to yourself. Also because an angiogram and stenting is such a common procedure these days we sometimes forget that it is an invasive procedure that is traumatic physically but also psychologically and emotionally.
Following a heart attack and stenting I developed what they thought was Dressler’s syndrome which is an inflammatory response to the stenting. So in the initial aftermath I attended hospital with chest pains/tachycardia/high temperature about 6 times over 9 months. Each time all was ok in that it wasn’t a heart attack rather the stent settling. So it’s early days for you and the heart is probably still recovering. As others have said rehab is brilliant and will help with understanding of your health and how your heart is responding. I would check whether or not it’s ok to fly in the next few weeks with either your rehab team or GP. In relation to swimming I was told no for at least 6 months. Although everything has changed for me and I am not the same person even after sessions with a psychologist and counsellor I won’t stop driving forward. My mantra is I cannot change my past but I can control my future.
I wish you well In your rehab and recovery. BHF have got some excellent resources that you can access as well as a helpline. Everyone here fully understands what you are going through and as you can see are more than willing to help. Take care and keep us posted about your journey. Best wishes Zena
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Today on my 6th or 7th kilometre I felt (and almost heard) a loud thud from the middle of my chest. Like something just tried to get out. I nearly c*****d myself for a second. But I didn't stop there, just slowed right down to a trot, checked my HM monitor and it was showing something normal (135BPM or something) and I sped up again. But I'll take it slow next few days. I will take light weights, do a bit of planking or I may look at some yoga videos on YT... 
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