So, I had a heart attack....

**ForresterModern** · 21st January 10, 07:15 AM

My condolensces on your illness and hopes for a full recovery.

I too have had a recurrent arrhythmia (atrial fibrillation) as well as what is believed to be a stress related myocardial infarction (fancy lingo for heart attack) a couple years ago due to some profound family disruption and its emotional effects on me. All of this is superimposed on an already malformed heart with a dysfunctional mitral valve, so adding insult to injury. The arrhythmia is no longer a problem, as long as I keep my alcohol intake in relative moderation. But losing 15% of my cardiac function from the MI was significant and remains so in how I tolerate exercise and physical workloads and my body weight.

Not trying to steal your thunder, just commiserating with a kilted brother in trouble. Again hoping for a full and speedy recovery.

Jeff

**thescot** · 21st January 10, 07:45 AM

When you have a lot of time, we'll talk about my own experience--that started at age 45 and ended with a heart transplant. That's not to scare you, only to point out that bad genes and 30+ years of heavy smoking will take its toll.

I am glad that you got things attended to early because that's the key. I, too, failed to experience those classic (or as I thought, "classic") signs. I experienced a general "something is not right" feeling, and it felt like someone had my neck in a firm, but not painful, hold. I later learned that this was not so atypical.

I encouage anyone who gets that sort of thing going to get checked our quickly. Early detection is the key to a long life with a bit of heart trouble.

And . . . you knew it was coming. . . don't smoke, don't smoke, don't smoke. (Only thing worse than a reformed drunk is a reformed smoker. :twisted?)

**thescot** · 21st January 10, 07:53 AM

Originally Posted by Mr. MacDougall

Thanks to all for your kind words. But really, I just wanted to say that heart attacks do present with atypical symptoms, so don't refrain from seeing a doc just because "this isn't what a heart attack is like."

For myself, I was very fortunate, and my MI was about as minor as it's possible to be and still deserve the name. I'm taking a bunch of pills, and waiting to stop feeling like I was punched in the groin, where they put the catheter in.

Hahahahahaha. Yeah, but that passes pretty quickly, and you kind of get used to it after a while. Never learned to like it, but got used to it. Especially since Versaid doesn't knock me out, so I watch the whole thing on the screen.

Just listen to the doctor and your own body. Life goes on, and taking a pill or two, losing weight, exercising, doing things differently is just a thing, as they (used to) say. Attitude is important, and I'll just bet that maybe the flowers smell better and the kids are sweeter and more precious. Personally, having been to the bright lights, I have become something of a big cry baby when I see touching things and experience touching moments.

My shared Quote of the Day is from Agatha Christie: “I like living. I have sometimes been wildly, despairingly, acutely miserable, racked with sorrow, but through it all I still know quite certainly that just to be alive is a grand thing.”

**Panache** · 21st January 10, 09:05 AM

M. M.

I hope you are feeling better, heart problems are scary and recovery is no fun.

You have my sympathies and wishes for a speedy recovery

Cheers

Jamie :ootd:

**Macman** · 21st January 10, 01:33 PM

I'm glad to hear that you made it through this. All the best to you in your recovery. Also, thanks for sharing your experience; it made me think.

**MacBean** · 21st January 10, 08:55 PM

Your sharing of your misfortune may yet save a life. Heart-felt wishes for a quick return to a happier life.

**denmcdough** · 21st January 10, 11:11 PM

So sorry to hear about this incident. Feel lucky, though, as most people who have a heart attack will die the first time. You have a second chance, so do that lifestyle change...you have to stick around to wear the kilt. Best wishes!!!

**Paul** · 23rd January 10, 04:43 AM

Glad to hear you're ok, though.
I'm only 19 and I've experienced some really atypical conditions for some of my age. I'm just thankful that I'm pretty much ok now!