Should I be at work?

[Wooodsie]

Hi, I'm age 63 male. Just diagnosed with angina, feel like I have been kicked by a mule (both physically and mentally) thought I was fit !!!. I have had a couple of weeks off work, office job nothing too strenuous, but just feel I can't be bothered. I am waiting for my first echocardiogram so have no idea how serious my condition is. Should I stay off work?

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Hello and welcome to the forum! I worked for fifteen months with angina (software development) before my bypass. Depending on frequently and severity of attacks, and if it occurs with exercise/stress or at rest would affect any decision. You need to speak to your GP. Also tell him how you feel as counseling may be appropriate. Good luck!

[Wooodsie in reply to MichaelJH]

Thank you. I have thought it may be a bout of depression / anxiety.

[LavenderBee]

Hi - similar story - I went for a private angiogram as the NHS told me I had angina but my blood results and clear ECG suggested I was low risk. Paid for reassurance to be honest. Angiogram showed a 99% blockage in my LAD with very feeble flow. Was fortunate that cardiologist suggested a stent there and then, again I had to pay as if I’d been referred back to NHS system I would have had a wait and in his words “most likely would have suffered and event”. That could’ve been fatal. I’ve never had time off work and considered myself for and healthy. I’m in cardiac rehab now and am starting a phased return to work next week. No idea if I am up to it until I try. Could you speak to your employer and get some support so you are in work but perhaps with a referral to occupational health for further advice? I’ve found dealing with the emotional side much more challenging than I anticipated and I’m a tough cookie normally. I’ve also found having quite a strict routine each day has been the best thing. Days I’ve allowed to meander at their own pace have always been “bad days”. It’s what works for you at the end of the day but I’ve generally tried to occupy myself with almost a timetable of tasks and it helps. Hope this is useful and feel free to ask any other questions.

[Wooodsie in reply to LavenderBee]

Thanks HighburyHill. I have thought of myself as pretty invincible too, up until now that is. I work for a small charity so there aren't many people who can 'jump' in to cover for me. I will be honest and say they are great, very caring and happy for me to come and go. I just feel guilty for not being at work, but I feel depressed at the thought of being at work - weird I know.

[LavenderBee in reply to Wooodsie]

Hi - I am part of a group outside of this forum and there is a former military guy who sounds similar to you. He ended up referring himself as he was really anxious- essentially he wasn’t sure what about. He was diagnosed with PTSD - not because of his military experiences but because of the shock of his diagnosis. He was referred for CBT and it worked a treat. He now understands and manages the anxiety. For me taking a walk is the best approach to any anxious feelings - I listen to podcasts - some thought provoking some funny. I’m not going to lie I felt so guilty being off work at the start but now I’m slightly worried about things - mainly that I must overstretch myself, I know that will be a challenge, but if I want to go back full time I need to accept the kindness of the phased return approach to see how I go. Good luck