Most people make a full recovery after a heart attack (myocardial infarction). However, exactly when you can resume your normal activities, such as going back to work, depends on your own physical and psychological ( mental) recovery.

Support
Going back to work
Mental wellbeing
Driving
Travelling
Sex
Lifestyle changes

Support

Recovering from a heart attack will take time, so it's important not to rush it. Healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists and dieticians, are there to support you both physically and mentally during your recovery period.

Back to top

Going back to work

Exactly how quickly you can return to work depends on your job, and the severity of a heart attack. Try to take it in stages. Only return to work when you think you've made a sufficient recovery, as heading back too early could increase your chances of another attack.

Your doctor will be able to advise you on the progress of your recovery, and give you the best estimate of when to return to work.

Once back at work it's important to let your employer know that you may need to rest when you get tired during the day. After a heart attack you not only need to take it easy physically, but you may need to mentally prepare yourself for being back in the workplace.

Back to top

Mental wellbeing

Life after a heart attack can be a very worrying time for both you and your family. Experiencing depression is not uncommon after a heart attack, and feelings of stress and anxiety should always be taken seriously.

Speak with your doctor about possible treatments, and remember to talk to someone if you feel worried about your mental health. Your doctor may suggest you see a specialist for a psychological assessment.

Back to top

Driving

After a heart attack you don't need to inform the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if you drive a car or motorcycle.

However, the DMV advise that you stop driving for at least four weeks following a heart attack. After this time you should be able to drive again, provided you don't experience any further complications as a result of a heart attack. For example arrhythmias - when you have irregular or uneven heart rhythms (either very fast or slow).

It's also recommended that you avoid long journeys and stressful driving situations (such as during rush hour), until you have fully recovered.

If you drive a large goods vehicle or passenger carrying vehicle, you must inform the DMV that you've had a heart attack. Your licence will be temporarily suspended for at least six weeks, or until you have fully recovered. Your driving licence will only be reissued once you've passed a basic health and fitness test.

Back to top

Travelling

You can usually fly within two to three weeks of a heart attack. However, this depends on your own speed of recovery, and whether you have experienced any complications since an attack.

It's best to check with your travel operator, airline, and travel insurance company before flying.

Back to top

Sex

Many people worry about having sex after a heart attack, often believing it's too strenuous an activity. There's no evidence to suggest that having sex increases your risk of another heart attack. However, it's best to wait until around four weeks after a heart attack before having sex again.

Some men may experience erectile dysfunction (difficulty maintaining an erection) after a heart attack. Speak with your doctor about possible treatments to help with your symptoms.

Back to top

Lifestyle changes

There are several contributing factors that will slow your recovery down. By making changes to your lifestyle you can help get your life back to normal faster, and reduce any future health risks.

Stop smoking. Smoking is the biggest cause of death and illness, so quit the habit and help prevent another heart attack. Speak with your doctor for expert advice and encouragement.

Eat a healthy balanced diet. Making changes to your diet will help to reduce your blood pressure and blood cholesterol level. By reducing these two factors you significantly lower your risk of heart disease, as well as increasing your life expectancy.

Reduce the amount of alcohol you drink. It's recommended that men drink no more than three to four units of alcohol a day, and women no more than two to three units a day. Also, avoid binge drinking (drinking to get drunk).

Get more exercise. After a heart attack it's important you keep active. Exercise is one of the most important factors in your recovery as it helps to strengthen your heart, as well as improve your general health. For the first three weeks after a heart attack try moderate activities such as walking or swimming.

Lose weight. The health benefits of shedding those extra pounds are endless. Not only will you lower both your cholesterol levels and blood pressure. But you'll also reduce your chances of other serious illnesses, such as a stroke.

Try to combine a healthy balanced diet with at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. It's recommended that you lose weight gradually, around 1-2 lbs (0.45-0.9kg) a week.

Back to top