I have just had an angiogram which showed evidence of mixed density disease of the proximal LAD. I am 50 and don't smoke or drink. I am slightly overweight. In May I started to struggle walking up hills and now I can barely walk more than 100 metres without having to stop.
I don't want to be inactive but what can I do safely?
First I suggest you try to lose some weight. Although it sounds obvious every 1 kg you lose is 1 kg less for you heart and lungs to move about. Next from what you have said your breathlessness is increasing so I suggest you speak to your GP to help identify the cause, which could be respiratory just as much as cardio. When the cause is known you can then consider your exercise regime.
Seeing as you appear to have got worse I would go back to your GP asap. You’re regression to struggling to walk 100m doesn’t sound good, I dint think you will be exercising your way out unless you’ve been checked out , I’d even consider going to A& E if you are breathless and struggling . You could call 111 to ask advice and explain that you’ve got worse or use the BHF contact for a cardiac nurse (email or live chat ) to get some advice.
I was fit & strong and just felt very fatigued prior to my “trapped wind” heart attack in July, 6 weeks earlier I went to GP because f the tiredness and they chrcked my testosterone, thyroid and B12, all came back normal .. then the heart attack and quadruple bypass. Be proactive, what treatment are you waiting for post angiogram? Don’t wait , tell your GP or cardiac consultant that you have got worse .
Is there some follow up on the angiogram results? Does your report state the % block, CAC score in the proximal LAD, or mention anything about the lumen?
Unless you've been told otherwise by the doctor/cardiologist , one would assume walking would be acceptable, but I wouldn't prioritize your cardiovascular fitness right now, I would work on that after all necessary medical tests/interventions have happened.
I was in a similar position. Used to do a lot of running albeit more stop start . Then struggled to complete what was a fairly routine run. I saw a young locum and based on a family history of heart disease and the fact I had occasionally ED he said let’s do gold standard test an Angiogram. I had a LAD blockage about 97%. Now that was told to me post procedure . Ask for your medical report. Ask the GP or whoever you see to read to or print out the report. To me it sounds like a Stent required . With the current state of NHS and its desperate need for funding from this inept Government you may only get a “ holding “ answer but do press for your medical information. It’ll help make informed choices.
Were you put on medication and have your struggles on hills been since you started on it?
Niall, obviously you need to get expert advice before starting an exercise program, but physical activity is really important for your wellbeing and longevity. I suggest that you start with a simple walking routine that's comfortable for you and gradually increase your distance and speed. If you do this regularly you'll soon feel the difference.
Go for it 👍 - Paul
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