Rehabilitation & Meds questions.

[Ocset]

Three months ago and whilst on holiday abroad I had a heart attack and subsequently a stent fitted. Having contacted my GP surgery recently, the doctor mentioned if such operation took place in the UK, I would have been referred to a rehabilitation programme.

1. Though am fine I believe it would benefit me great deal if I attend such programme… does anyone have any idea how to go about joining such programmes and do I need a GP referral or approach them directly?

googled in my area (Berkshire) and couldn't find any.

2. the meds am on, clopidogrel /asprin / rosuvastatin I am clear to why am on them but I am also on two different tablets to reduce high blood pressure (candesartan/bisoprolol) . As a result my average bp is around 95/73. I don’t understand to why have two not to mention the water pills which also reduces bp…(I stopped it now). I discussed my concerns with my GP and she is writing to a specialist and will get back to me… however would appreciate comments from others in similar situation.

Thank you.

[Nathan53]

My partner had a heart attack and stent while abroad last year. On return to the UK he initially saw the Nurse Practitioner at his GP surgery to enquire about rehab. They told him the referral would have to come from the Cardiologist. As this appointment was 4 months in the future he arranged an appointment with GP who agreed to make a referral to the rehab team who made contact and sessions started within a few weeks.

I would speak with GP on phone to request a referral even though there may be an ongoing delay due to Covid. In the meantime check out the pinned posts to the right of this screen for info on rehab and exercise.

On the drugs side Candesartan is one of the drugs routinely prescribed after a heart attack or stroke to help prevent further attacks. Bisoprolol is also given to slow and strengthen heart rate however both drugs will have a blood pressure lowering effect. Perhaps an adjustment to the dose may help which Cardiologist or GP could do. In the meantime take care when standing after sitting or lying down as you can become dizzy and prone to fall if your GP drops suddenly or is on the low side.

[Ocset in reply to Nathan53]

Thanks for your reply. appreciated.

The only thing is that when I walk to my local park or supermarket I get very tired and slightly tight chested for about 7-10 minutes that I have to stop but after that normal as I was till the end of January

[Nathan53 in reply to Ocset]

Hi When you set off on a walk do you build up gradually by walking slowly for 5 to 10 minutes then build the pace up. It's easy to forget to do this. Similarly reduce the pace again before you get home and have a rest. Your symptoms could be due to still being in a recovery period and possibly your medication. Keep a diary of your symptoms and discuss with GP.

[Ocset in reply to Nathan53]

thank you, will certainly do.... and yes I tend to start walking the way I used to..

[Outforawalk]

With the current Covid19 situation I’m not aware of any face to face cardiac rehab clinics taking place anywhere. The clinic local to me is doing telephone consultations to discuss exercise, general progress and any concerns, your GP Or local hospital should be able to point you in the right direction.

[Ocset in reply to Outforawalk]

Thank you

[080311]

Haven’t had a heart attack but AVR and bypass I am on Candesartan and Bisoprolol plus furosemide (water tablet) my blood pressure readings seem very similar to yours 102/62, until things become more normal cardio rehab seems to be on hold. If you have a cardio nurse contact her to ask about being put on the rehab program and if not ask your GP to arrange a referral. I found rehab invaluable.

Stay safe best wishes Pauline

[Ocset in reply to 080311]

Thank you, will definitely contact my GP and ask she refers me.

p.s. I was on the water tablet for 4 weeks after the op. I found herbal natural diuretics do the same i.e. Hibiscus, green tea, ginger and parsley.

[080311 in reply to Ocset]

My drugs were issued by my surgeon after my open heart surgery, so wouldn’t like to tinker with what he wants after he has held my heart in his hands!!

[Changeling43]

Hi, I had a heart attack and stent at the end of February and was due to start rehab when the virus and lockdown started. My rehab was cancelled but they sent me a dvd with the exercises on and a useful website to record my progress. After 8-9 weeks I am now on level 5 (highest level) with extra weights and running up to a mile comfortably. You can access the exercises on you tube if you search for BHF healthy heart exercise programme.

I would highly recommend phoning the heart rehabilitation nurses from your local hospital.

Hope you have some luck with it.

[Ocset in reply to Changeling43]

thank you..

[Florenceamelia]

I had a stent fitted in France where we lived over 20 years ago, after the small op I was sent to convalesce at the William Harvey clinic which was excellent, complete with your own room,shower and all medical attention,plus daily exercise regimes for a fortnight,never had even a twinge since. I am very grateful for the care given at that time.

[Hidden]

Have you had an Echocardiogram done, or are due one?

[Ocset in reply to Hidden]

not since the op.

[Hidden in reply to Ocset]

So what were the results? If your heart is undamaged it might be worth discussing why you are on a Beta Blocker (Bisoprolol). If you BP goes too low you will feel rubbish and not feel like exercising.