Communication
Communication is very important for keeping families close and well-connected. Many couples and families go through life without saying how much they care about the other. Some couples and families say that having a heart attack brought them closer because they realised how important they are to each other.
It is necessary for everyone to talk honestly and freely about what they’re feeling. No one, including children, should be excluded from the conversation. You may not be aware that children can often blame themselves when their parents become unwell, so it is important to explain to them what has happened and why it has happened.
Having open and honest conversations may not only reduce episodes of stress; it may also encourage closeness and emotional support that heart attack survivors need.
Organise a family talk
People who live together often share the same risk factors. Why not change these as a family / whānau? You can support each other. Try working together to set goals and action plans..
Sex
Many people worry that if you have heart disease or particularly if you’ve had a heart attack sex will put too much stress on your heart and cause damage or another heart attack. However, most people can safely return to sexual activity after they have been diagnosed with heart disease or are recovering from a heart attack.
Sex is no different from any other kind of exercise. It is good for your heart. Getting sexually aroused will not hurt you. Nor will an orgasm.
Erection Problems
A lot of men with coronary artery disease or diabetes have problems with erections (impotence) before coronary artery disease is discovered. Stopping smoking, exercising, losing weight and drinking less alcohol can often restore good erections.
Impotence or erection problems following a heart attack may also be a result of emotional stress and sometimes from taking certain medications such as beta-blockers. It is important to talk to your doctor if you think the medication is the problem. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dose.
Hormone levels are higher in the early morning and erections may be more reliable at this time.
Erection problems can also be due to a loss of confidence. Ask your doctor about medication to get and keep an erection, if this is a problem. Trying to make love before you are physically ready for it and failing can cause a loss of confidence, leading to problems.
Viagra, Avigra etc should be taken with caution when using some heart medications. Discuss with your health professional before use.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Glyceryl Trinitrate (GTN) spray interacts significantly with all medications used for Erectile Dysfunction. This combination can cause a large drop in blood pressure resulting in dizziness, fainting or even a heart attack. You should not use GTN spray within 24 hours of taking erectile dysfunction medication. If presenting with chest pain you must inform medical staff if you have used erectile dysfunction medication within the last 24 hours.
Sex safety tips
- Avoid sex within two hours of eating a heavy meal or having a lot of alcohol
- If you have had surgery, avoid putting too much pressure on your chest in the first 4-6 weeks
- Choose a time when you are rested and relaxed, start slowly and let intimacy build before starting intercourse
- Find a comfortable position, ask your partner to take a more active role
- Ensure the room and bed is warm
Partners of people with coronary artery disease are often worried about damaging the other person and may try to avoid sex. If one partner tries to avoid sex, or is less willing than usual, the other can feel rejected or angry. They may feel that they are no longer attractive or loved. If you can, it is best to talk honestly with your partner about your feelings.