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After a heart attack, itÕs normal to feel depressed and more sensitive than you did
before for about 2 to 6 months. Fear and anger are also normal emotional responses. During
initial recovery, every time you feel a twinge, you might feel afraid itÕs going to happen
again. This will begin to pass as time goes by. You might also feel irritable and lose
your temper around friends and family. Try not to forget that your illness was a huge
jolt for them, too. A lot of heart attack victims blame themselves for living irresponsibly,
but even people who know theyÕre predisposed to heart conditions and have practiced all
the rules of thumb are at risk. Emotional stress and anxiety speed up your heart rate,
making it work harder. So, this can even prolong your recovery.
If depression starts to interfere with sleeping, eating and self-esteem, donÕt be afraid to
ask for help. You need and you deserve all the support you can get.
Most heart attack patients go back to work within two weeks to three months. Your doctor
will help you determine when youÕre ready. If the work you do requires a lot of physical
labor, you may even need to think about switching jobs.
Many people worry that sex might trigger another heart attack. The demands that *** intercourse
place on your heart are similar to taking a brisk walk or climbing one or two flights
of stairs. DonÕt be embarrassed to ask your doctor when it's safe to resume *** activity.
ItÕs a very common and very important question. Some heart medications, such as beta blockers,
may affect *** function. If you experience a problem, it may have to do with depression
or anxiety, rather than the medications youÕre taking. And if the problem persists, donÕt
be afraid to talk to your doctor about it. HOST:
A heart attack can be emotionally draining on you and your family. But, it doesnÕt mean
the end of an active life. In fact, itÕs a sign for change.
You have control to make those changes, and with the support of your doctor and loved
ones, continue doing the things you enjoy. Thanks for being a part of HealthiNation.
Be sure to watch other segments, and get talking about your health.