After heart attack feeling anxious

[m0nk2000]

Hi all,

Does anyone else feel really anxious after release of the hospital?

I'm an outpatient (still have one blocked artery) after having a sten and now hopefully awaiting an bypass.

But I noticed that when I think too much about the situation that I get really anxious and then even think that I may get another heart attack.

Start panicking quite often and just wanted to see if some of you have experienced this as well.

[Chriswood79]

Hi m0nk. It’s completely natural to feel like this as hospital is a safe place with everything around you you need. Leaving is daunting as you are effectively on your own. Support is still there though should you need it, albeit at a distance. Try some meditation or relaxation apps to try and stop your mind wandering. It is a very stressful and worrying time. Talking with those around you helps. Stay positive. Chris

[sca2013]

Yes, very normal to feel like that. I know I did. Each day you get through will add to your confidence over time. Make a list of things that you love to do or make you feel positive in some way. Then whenever you start thinking about what ifs or worrying, get the list out and imagine experiencing those things on the list or if possible actually do the things on your list.

Another thing that really helped me and may seem counter intuitive was to make it ok if the worst thing happened. Whatever that would be for you. Not that you want or expect it to happen, just making it ok in my mind and feelings lifted a huge load of anxiety about it. It was easier to see/find new alternatives to other things. Doing that reduced my overall stress about the situation.

Know you are doing everything you're capable of in the present moment. If you could do more or something different you would have already done it. I'm sorry you're going through this. Sometimes things just felt so impossible, yet with time I figured out new ways to live that made life better. I wish you peace, comfort and the solutions that are best for you.

[TracyAdmin Partner]

Welcome to the Forum, how are you today? it is completely natural to feel anxious, the body has experienced quite a shock. You may like to visit our online patient resources, for tips and advice on how to relax : heartrhythmalliance.org/aa/...

booklet

[Eiain]

Hi m0nk2000,

You are not alone, and I think we are all going through the same thing, but all at different stages. It is a scary time and a massive thing to deal with, and dare I say life altering.

I am in the same boat. I had my heart attack and 4 cardiac arrests on 13th October, the same evening I had 1 of 2 blockages removed and a stent fitted. I am anxious about it all like you and find that it feels all consuming. Although I do not panic, I do get very low about it all. I have never been the best at talking about things, and this is no exception. As I have three fractured ribs which are still sore I worry if this is my heart and the ribs are masking it. As I have another blockage in my heart, but they said with medication that should go, however, the use of "should" worries me too.

[scotsrish]

That is a given for the majority of us. It is terrifying and takes a while to come to terms with this new bump in the road of your life. Most important is walking and exercise. This site is perfect for dealing with the unknown.

[Asuntinaheart]

I was very anxious after my H.A. each time I had indigestion pain I thought it was another. So kept going to the hospital. Now I have calmed alot...So I just think it's a good thing if you can just take life easier..chill...meditate ..diet ...exercise and hopefully you will be OK.