Recovery after bypass

[HueyAFLMasters]

I went to the Doctor with chest pain after exercise. Sent off for a stress test 3 days later and had an Angiogram 2 weeks after that. Turned out my main artery was 100% blocked and 2 others, 90% and 80% blocked. 4 days later I had a triple bypass. I have had 3 months off work having dealt with the initial physical aspects of recovery and want to know how best to prepare for the mental anxiety and stress to be able to return to work where there has also been a major restructure and ongoing changes.

[sca2013]

Speaking as a two time survivor ( one heart attack 2001, one cardiac arrest 2016) - take care of yourself first. You're not going to be able to do anything if you're not functioning at your best. Once you have a good grasp and action plan, that you fully live, then you can start phasing back into your workaday world. When in doubt take a break. Some of the things I have used to deal with the anxiety and stress is develop a pretty much daily practice of meditation, or yoga, walking in nature. I use meditation, especially in the evening before going to bed, I do a simple visualization releasing all the stressors (which can include all of the anxieties related to what has happened to you and any concerns you have about it) of the day and replacing it with peace and comfort or whatever else you want to feel instead. Always get your sleep - at least 8 hours. Stop pushing through things to get them done. If you're tired or stressed, take a break. Might be something as simple as going for a short walk, doing some breathing, etc. As time goes by you'll find things start to calm down and you will develop different coping strategies that will help you deal with all of it better. If I can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact me. Craig

[HueyAFLMasters in reply to sca2013]

Thank you for your advice - yes I realise relaxation techniques are important and to establish a life plan that enables work to slot in rather than the other way around is the way to go - my sleep is an issue at the moment and I have to have a sleep apnoea test in two weeks so need to get that seen to - I am lucky I have plenty of leave available and realise that just going back to work would be possible now but not in my best interest until I have the bigger picture sorted - thanks again and good luck with your situation

[Jennygriffin in reply to sca2013]

I agree with what you have said. I had 2 heart attacks nearly 4years ago..they were only a week apart....I have taught myself to enjoy every day....some days I’m full of energy,nothing can stop me. But then some times I’m so exhausted that I have to rest. I never know when this will happen...I’m very fortunate that my family and friends support me and understand...I’ve travelled to Jamaica for a wedding flown to Australia twice since and I’m going again this year...I never promise or plan to do anything before 10 am because some mornings it takes me ages to get going....I find the cold and wind hard...An elderly friend of mine said to cover my mouth with a scarf.....this really helps with my breathing...I intend like you to live for many more years....I also take a walking stick with me. I leave it in the car so it’s there. I use it on long walks....think positively and don’t be afraid,listen to what your body tells you. If you’re tired rest....or sleep...I hope this all helps...take care..

[HueyAFLMasters in reply to Jennygriffin]

I found out just after my last post that I had low ferritin levels so have since had an iron infusion but not sure if that is making a difference. I have also been diagnosed with central sleep apnoea where I stop breathing 26 times an hour on average which is not helping my recovery and now using a CPAP machine which is being replaced by an auto CPAP machine as the constant flow machine has not been effective. I find it is important to push yourself in the morning to get out and be active and engage with people and to rest when your body (not your mind) is telling you otherwise. Nice to know you can get out to Australia especially if it is to avoid the cold Northern winter.

[pinnelli]

Hi, I hope you are doing well & on road to recovery.

Like the other reply I’d recommend small changes, I tried mindfulness & almost every day I do 10mins mindful breathing. Recognise when you are tired and getting stressed & take a break.

End of day work will just replace us, they won’t be there picking up the pieces! Your family will! The sky does t fall in because you didn’t stay late tonight at the office! Our world has developed a crazy sense of free overtime. We all function better with rest.

Tweak your diet where you can, I’ve cut caffeine to 1 cup per day. Avoid food on the go wherever possible.

I also find taking about it a real cure, whether that was emotional support from my GP, ok these days they don’t have the time, and to friends and family. Just be open about the anxiety and you’ll be surprised how well received it is & the amount of people who admit to suffering from anxiety.

Take care, Chris, a survivor of an out of hospital cardiac arrest, and I was an extremely fit and healthy 46 year old cyclist at the time. In fact I was out on my bike that day! It’s been a hard pill to swallow.

[Jamesgui2]

Hi H, glad all went well. Cardiac Rehabilitation Program will help gain you back your confidence with all aspects of your life .This is is exactly what the program is designed for. Unfortunately anxiety is part of normal every day life. You will be surprised just how much confidence can be achieved. Maybe you could start at a more relaxed schedule with your job and return to normal as confidence returns .

Have a word with human resources at your workplace and see if they can provide some helpful information.

Once again congratulations on your bypass. Now your life can and will get back to normal.

Best wishes James