Heart attack survivors often face lingering anxiety about returning to normal life, even after successful treatment. Malaysia’s 2020–2021 National Cardiovascular Disease report recorded over 15,000 admissions for acute coronary syndrome, including heart attacks. While medical reports show recovery, patients may still struggle with the emotional aftermath.
Recovery extends beyond the hospital stay
Recovery begins before leaving the hospital, according to Dr. Yew Kuan Leong, a consultant cardiologist at Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre Klang (BTMC). It involves adopting a healthier lifestyle, taking prescribed medication, and starting cardiac rehabilitation, which continues after discharge.
The process varies, with some resuming activities within weeks, while others need more time. Dr. Shathiskumar Govindaraju, also a consultant cardiologist at BTMC, notes that a heart attack can be an emotional shock, leading to fear, sadness, or irritability. These feelings are not signs of weakness but can impact cardiovascular outcomes.
Addressing emotional and physical recovery
Anxiety can make normal sensations feel alarming, with patients worrying about chest discomfort or headaches. Dr. Yew advises against self-diagnosis, urging medical assessment for new or worsening symptoms. Fear of another heart attack is common, but it becomes a problem when it controls a patient’s life.
Emotional support is key. Family members should offer reassurance based on medical assessments. Persistent anxiety, low mood, or sleep issues should be discussed with a doctor. Dr. Shathiskumar emphasizes the importance of cardiac rehabilitation in rebuilding confidence and understanding one’s condition.
Angioplasty, while treating blockages, does not cure coronary artery disease. Dr. Yew compares it to creating a good highway, requiring patients to maintain it through healthy living and medication. Treatment now includes protecting heart muscle, with therapies like SuperSaturated Oxygen (SSO₂) for selected patients.
The Emotional Impact of Heart Attacks
Heart attack survivors often experience emotional distress, which can significantly impact their recovery. Dr. Shathiskumar highlights that a heart attack is not just a physical event but can also be an emotional shock, similar to a traumatic experience. This can lead to fear, sadness, irritability, and a constant awareness of one’s heartbeat, along with the lingering question, “What if it happens again?”
Cardiology Collaboration and Support
As coronary cases increase in complexity, cardiologists must continue learning from each other, including across borders, to keep up with new techniques. Treatment has evolved to address more detailed diseases, such as heavily calcified arteries and multiple blockages.
Managing Anxiety and Rebuilding Confidence
Family members play a key role in supporting heart attack survivors. Dr. Yew advises patients to be patient and take things one step at a time, emphasizing that confidence rebuilding is a gradual process.
Cardiac rehabilitation is a vital component of recovery, helping patients improve risk factors, understand their condition, and gradually regain confidence in their physical abilities. Dr. Shathiskumar stresses the importance of this often underused aspect of recovery.
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