Arteriosclerosis Support Group

I been having silent minor heart attacks my whole life. I have been staving them off with aspirin, rest and exercise. I get back in good shape, my pain and problems go away. My cholesterol levels go up, I get chest pain. They say high cholesterol has no symptoms, thats BS. Wondering how your cholesterol levels are? I can never seem to get my HDL over 42. Best wishes to you.

Hey, I am 31 and I had a heart attack in july this year. No stent put in had baloon and was in intensive care for 3 weeks and on a life support unconsious for 10 days.

I had a MI at age 34, because of a dissection on the right artery. Had 6 stents put. How do you live with a 100% blockage? Are you restricted, exercise wise? Do you feel chest pain/discomfort?

hannahlev-

Fortunately I am 100% symptom-free. For several months following my last angiogram (I had a total of four) I was experiencing mild angina. My cardiologist adjusted my metoprolol dosage, and now I am symptom-free. My exercise goal is 6 days/week, 1 hour, target HR 140-150. I usually average about 3 days/week. My only exercise restristion is keeping HR below 160 and no crazy weightlifting.

hi Travis, these blockages are not in the main arteries, are they? I mean, not on the right, left and left desceding arteries, right? I too have a 100% blockage, but it is in one small branch of the RCA...What caused your MI?

Hi - I had a massive heart attack in Dec 08, 9 days after my 32nd birthday. The consultants were great and did an immediate angioplasty (2 stents). I've always been fit and healthy, go the gym regularly, play football - just a total shock. Still off work but hoping to be back soon - recovery is going well so far with all the meds and exercise. Was wondering if there are any support groups out there for young people who have had similar experiences. How do people cope with exercise? Any good ideas about diets/healthy eating? I'm still waiting to go on the rehabilitation programme - theres a long waiting list aparently.
Thanks, Nathan

nsmallsh-

I searched all over the internet to find a support group for young people like us who have suffered heart attacks. I was unable to find any, which was why I started these threads in the Arteriosclerosis and Heart Attack Support Groups. From all the replies it sounds like there are a number of people in the same situation. Most of the resources are directed at those 50+.

As far as exercise, it has been hard to remain diligent enough to meet my goals. My exercise goal is 6 days/week, 1 hour, target HR 140-150. My exercise routine has been interrupted by a total of 4 angiograms and PTCAs, 1 nephrectomy (kidney removal, a separated shoulder (mountain biking), and life in general.

I've been fortunate in that my wife is a registered dietitian. She has been a great help in getting me on the right track dieting. If I had any advice in this area, it is to remain focused on the basics. Low saturated fat, low cholesterol, and low sodium if you have a BP problem. Avoid the crazy supplements and miracle cures. Cut butter, full fat dairy products, and fast food out of your diet completely. Eliminate or reduce red meat consumption. Lots of veggies and whole grains. It can be tasty, but it takes some time to adjust. Good luck and keep in touch!