Any Health Professionals Out there....???

Hophead43

I'm tyring to increase my running speed/distance but have sort of a mental block. A few years ago I had a heart attack, the full blown we had to jump start you type! Followed that with a double bypass, so I get a little freaked out when my heart rate get around 160 BPM. The questions I have are A) How high can I go safely? ( I'm 43.) and What's safe for a normal person??

Cherimoose

How high can I go safely?

That's a question only a cardiologist should answer, after reviewing your detailed medical history. Why not call or email your doctor and ask?

OffKilter5150

I am an RN. And I agree with the above poster...have a chat with your cardiologist. They will probably be able to answer your questions over the phone or via email. Keep in mind that you may be on certain medications that keep your HR lower, such as beta blockers. But again, your cardiologist can best advise you! And good for you getting out there and exercising post MI! Taking care of yourself is huge!

Hophead43

I am an RN. And I agree with the above poster...have a chat with your cardiologist. They will probably be able to answer your questions over the phone or via email. Keep in mind that you may be on certain medications that keep your HR lower, such as beta blockers. But again, your cardiologist can best advise you! And good for you getting out there and exercising post MI! Taking care of yourself is huge!

Thanks I'm am trying! Actually the cardiologist gave me a go on pretty much anything! My last check-up my heart function was at 100%. I take something called coreg, I think that is the beta blocker that you speak of. Honestly I think its mostly in my head. When I had my MI I was in the middle of a stress test and watched my HR jump from 135 to 210 in like 30 seconds so now when I get to high I get freaked out. I just like to hear from health care types that Ill be OK as long as I feel OK. Thanks for your responses, both of you!!

OffKilter5150

Yup, Coreg is your beta blocker. It works by slowing your heart and making it pump stronger-essentially makes it a more efficient pump. Another thing to keep in mind about your HR, is that MI's don't happen because your heart is beating too fast. The rapid heartbeat is a symptom of damage occurring in the heart during the MI. Make sense? By deliberately increasing the rate through exercise, your are strengthening the heart as well as increasing the circulation within the cardiac muscle itself. Nothing to be afraid of, right? Still, if you are concerned, don't hesitate to contact your cardiologist. They know your specifics and only they can give you proper advice.

Hophead43

Thanks again!! It does make sense. I just have to get over it in my head. I feel fine at 170+ I just get a bit on edge.