LIVING WITH ANGINA
What can I do to help my angina?
Quite a lot. Although a family history of the problem is an unavoidable risk
factor, many other factors can be avoided with some thought and a change in
behaviour.
It is never too late to stop smoking and it is important you do stop. Apart
from the health benefits, food and drink will smell and taste nicer!
Remember, angina is an early wanting system. Angina pain should not be
ignored. Have a chat with your doctor about an exercise programme especially
for you.
Your doctor can also advise you about your diet. Avoid fats where you can,
especially animal fats. Fats may be hidden in red meats and eggs or staring at
you in butter, milk and cream.
Put away the frying pan and use the grill or poacher.
To reduce your salt intake try not to add salt during cooking.
Now I have angina, can I still go to work?
Usually, yes. However, if work brings on your angina you will need to
discuss your options with your doctor. Your doctor may also be able to advise
you on ways to discuss the options with your employer. It is unlikely that you
will be able to do a heavy manual job or work every hour of the day.
Remember, having angina means your heart is giving you a warning that it
cannot cope, it's asking you to slow down.
Can I continue to drive?
You should tell your insurance company that you have angina or you may find
that your insurance becomes invalid. If angina is brought on by driving you
will need to inform the DVLA. If you hold an LGV (HGV) or PSV (PCV) licence,
this may be withdrawn.
Can I still go on holiday?
Yes, although remember you are meant to relax more so don't worry about
travelling, train times or whatever Leave in plenty of time and tell any travel
company you are booking with so they can help you have a stress-free time.
Discuss any possible problems with your doctor before you book.
Should I see the doctor for regular check-ups?
You will probably see your doctor for regular check-ups every few months.
However, make an appointment if your attacks become worse or happen more often.
If you rind the tablets don't work as well as they used to, or you get angina
whilst resting, see your doctor immediately.
Can I still have sex?
Doctors may forget to talk about sex, and patients often don't want to ask
because they feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. Some people who have angina
experience chest pain, usually during orgasm or just after. The rule of thumb
is that if you can climb briskly up and down two flights of stairs without
symptoms, sex will probably be problem free. Of course, sex is exercise and
excitement. It raises the blood pressure, makes the heart beat faster and the
breathing quicken. However, in a long-standing relationship these changes are
the same as for many other daily activities and should not hamper your sex
life. If you find that sexual activity brings on your angina, you may want to
take a nitrate tablet or spray beforehand as this may prevent the angina. You
may find that your partner needs to take on a more active role than previously.
To lessen any chance of sex bringing on angina, the bedroom and bed should be
comfortable and warm. You should wait a couple of hours after a hot bath or a
meal. You may find that you are more relaxed after a good night's sleep rather
than before it. Your doctor can help and advise you personally. Do talk to your
doctor if you have any concerns.
Impotence after a heart attack is not uncommon and is usually temporary.
However, it can sometimes be a side effect of medicines so it is worth talking
to your doctor about this if it is a problem for you. Do not stop taking any
medicine without your doctor's advice.
The new you
Having angina does not mean that life has to stop. It can be a new
beginning, changing bad old habits for good new ones. Your doctor is in a great
position to help and advise you.
You only have to ask!
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