What Now???

[baigent87]

Hi Everyone,

I’m 32 years old and had an unexpected heart attack about 3 weeks ago.

Due to Covid I am unable to join any kind of rehabilitation groups at the hospital and only receive a 10 minute call from my rehabilitation nurse roughly every 1-2 weeks to see how I’m getting on.

I was very active before my heart attack (gym, long walks, running etc) and was wondering if anybody has any knowledge of when I can begin to take long walks; bike rides etc?

I have to admit, I really am I’m limbo at the moment, 1 day in lifting weights and going for a run and the next day, bang I’ve had a heart attack and it feels like my whole world has been turned upside down.

Due to my age I don’t have any friends that can really relate to my situation and the people in my family that can are in their 60’s.

Any advice would be great

[MrNT]

Welcome to the club baigent87! I know how you feel. A little older at 58, but feeling a lot younger in my head. I was someone who also had an unexpected heart attack with a stent inserted. That was just over 2 years ago. I have drifted away from Internet forums like this one on a regular basis, but in the early days this site was a very useful source of information. My advice would be don’t rush it! Take it slowly and build fitness slowly. This will pay dividends later. Cardiac rehab is very useful but be warned that if you were physically active previously you will not be impressed at the low levels that you will be expected to follow.

I found myself in a similar situation, but was lucky to have a supportive GP and gym staff.

I did cardiac rehab and was back in the gym after about 6 months after my heart attack. At nine months post event I was back at circuit training classes. Always paying attention to my body and heart rate! I have never been a runner, but with the consent of my GP I joined my local park run prior to lockdown. I have not looked back, I am getting fitter and fitter. Always aware of the little piece of metal in my chest and back off when my my body tells me that I’m starting to push it too far.

Check out “Cardiac Athletes“ on the internet, some truly inspiring stories and very relevant to anyone who is physically active and finds themself with a cardiac issue.

We all hear about the “new normal”, and I certainly think that post heart attack this is very relevant. In my experience it has not proved to be the end of the road, it has taken me on a slightly different journey. Obviously we are all different and a lot will depend on your own health and circumstances. I can only confirm that I am at least as fit as I was prior to my heart attack and in some ways fitter, I’m certainly a better runner.

It’s a lot to take in, and it will also be difficult for your family and friends to comprehend.

I’m a Cardiac Athlete and proud! I hope that helps.

[ohpilip]

I am a little older than you at nearly 85. Had heart attack in 1992 and a triple bypass in 1998. So far (and I know there are no guarantees in this business!) I have been going to the gym regularly in normal times and walking 4 to 5 miles a day now, mostly on steep inclines. despite having accumulated extra diseases. Whilst I obviously don't know the details giving rise to your experience, I can tell you that revising my diet and undertaking a slow build up of exercise have been enormously helpful. You may also want to look into mindfulness exercises as well though they don't suit everyone.

My experience of rehab nurses is that they are highly qualified in the subject of their choice and I hope yours provides a good information and guidance. There is also a great deal of useful advice on the Web. I recommend asking your nurse about trustworthy sites. You can always ask nurse about any advice you're not sure about.

[Isabelles]

Well, I am in the same boat almost. I had a heart attack last Thursday and a Stent put in on Friday. I am 53, and have been a runner for a little over 10 years. I will be able to join cardiac rehab, and here (Milwaukee) they say their goal is to get you back to your pre-event level of activity in 12 weeks. I will try to let you know how it goes.

Thanks to MrNT for the info on Cardiac Athletes.

Lots of things to consider beyond exercise - like effects of medications, warning signs to look out for, etc. It concerns me a little bit that you won't at least have somewhere to go where they can hook you up to an EKG occasionally. I am happy I will have that opportunity at least at cardiac rehab, so I know not to freak out over any little ache or pain which I've always ignored in the past.

Good luck.

[bobski1]

Most would not admit to being terrified after an attack ,things going through your mind like how much exercise I can do etc. It maybe that your still needing the serotonin "kick" ,the bodies happy drug which can be very addictive once your hooked on it . My advice from my own experience is take it easy ,gradually build up lost muscle ,keep blood pumping by gradual increase in exercise over months ,small gradual steps boost your mental health and physical health ,if you think your overdoing it ,slow and stop ,take water and rest ,try again next day but not so much straining .understand your limits and listen to your body

[Karenmj]

Hi I know it’s not the same but I would say just keep walking and build up your strength. I was like you I went to the gym, bike riding and I know how it feels. Get wrapped up warm and walk you’ll soon be back in the gym

[Bellerose]

Hi my partner is 38 and has just experienced a heart attack in Nov 20.Hes mentioned feeling very much the same as you.(Feeling like hes been left in limbo they sent him on his way with a booklet)Hes just had his second stent last thursday and all seems to be looking good.we’ve taken each day at a time.Hes had good days and bad.His bad days consist of questions of why me and he describes himself as the condemned man.But i remind him hes just special having been through everything and coming out the other side.Talking helps he says and its ok to cry or let off steam then just pick yourself up as tomorrow is a new day.Set your self a goal perhaps walking distance at your own pace to build your stamina back up.Keep smiling ☺️