Dressler’s Syndrome

[VelvetSky]

Hi, the second time I was admitted to hospital following the heart attack and stent I was told I had Dressler’s Syndrome, anyone else had this?

On a lighter note how on earth do people find the time and energy to train and run massive distances, I’m still so exhausted nine weeks on, I really cannot even manage basic housework and haven’t been well enough to start cardio rehab.

I had another copy letter from theCardiologist this morning, yet again facts are not right and despite several letters the NHS insists on still sending letters to the wrong doctor in my large practise, one I never see.

[Kristin1812 Heart Star]

Yes, I’m amazed at some people (and a touch jealous!) who seem to be back to work and training for a marathon moments after a heart attack. It took me ages, and you might be the same. We’re all so different.

Take it steady, and you’ll get there!

[13allit]

Hi

I had Dressler Syndrome after open heart surgery. It will slow down your recovery so don’t get worried that you’re not doing much. My cardio nurse told me to take things very gently to avoid putting more strain on my heart. I was given colchicine to help with the symptoms and it was a few months before I was feeling it was going. It can recur for around a year but each time it’s not as bad. I had two more episodes and took anti inflammatory to help. Cardiologist advised to not do much when it flared up and not to get worried about it. The time I ignored their advice it lasted much longer! I had flare ups for around 6 months and have been symptom free for 4 months. My worst symptoms were very painful shoulders and feeling there was a weight pressing on my chest which affected my breathing.

Take it easy and it’ll eventually wear itself out as it’s your immune systems way of protecting your body.

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

There are numerous factors that affect recovery and I mentioned these in a query about returning to work a little earlier. I was painted a very optimistic picture about recovery time before my bypass. The heatwave started when I went home and progress was extremely slow until the weather broke. As said we are all different so recovery times do vary. Having met a few fellow hearties during my journey I am dubious about some of the claims made!

[VelvetSky]

Thanks everyone for the encouragement.

13allit, how do you know when it’s a flair up of the Dresslers, I keep getting severe pain in my upper back, mostly on the right hand side, last night had right chest pain. I did a bit of light gardening yesterday and wonder if it agrivated it.

I live alone and it’s hard to manage when I’m so exhausted.