Mailbag: Physical Activity After Heart Attack [FIX the Fear!]
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted October 31, 2023
“My wife just had a heart attack a month ago and is living in fear. I feel like I can’t get her to do anything. She’s constantly afraid of having a second one.
Should she be afraid? Is it safe to resume normal activities after a heart attack?”
-Roland from Palm Springs, CA
Hi Roland,
Many folks will be running scared from ghosts and goblins tonight. But in MY book, few things are more frightening than a heart attack.
That’s why I can understand ANYONE having hesitation to exercise after experiencing one. It’s a perfectly normal reaction.
Many people lose confidence in their bodies after a major health scare.
However, in general, gentle exercise can actually strengthen the heart and aid in recovery when done carefully under medical guidance.
If you’re afraid of physical activity after a heart incident, it’s important to talk with your doctor about those fears. Your doc can devise a plan for easing back into exercise that’s appropriate for you.
Ask about a medically supervised cardiac rehab program. These programs help folks safely progress through activity levels tailored to their specific needs. Having expert oversight can build confidence.
In the past, when helping heart attack patients get back to exercising, I’ve typically advised several things…
- Start very slowly and at low intensity. Even a daily 5 to 10-minute walk is beneficial. Build up gradually over weeks or months. Initially, avoiding straining or breathlessness can keep your fear under wraps.
- Focus on breathing smoothly and maintaining good posture during movement. Proper breathing techniques help manage stress levels.
- Stick to low-impact activities to start: walking, stationary cycling, water aerobics, or stretching. Higher-impact activities can come later when confidence levels are higher.
- Exercise earlier in the day. This avoids fatigue and provides time for rest and recovery if needed. Stop if you feel dizzy or unwell, even if you suspect it’s caused by anxiety.
- Have a buddy along for encouragement. It helps many people feel motivated and
- Celebrate small wins. Note the exercises you can do now versus a week ago. Give yourself credit for each forward step.
The key for many folks is to create a sustainable routine that steadily builds on their activity level while avoiding overexertion.
And remember, patience and being kind to yourself (or your loved one) during recovery is a vital part of becoming healthy again.
P.S. “Bedroom Secret” could reduce post-heart-attack death by 35%!
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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