The recovery process begins in the first couple of days. The damaged heart muscle is replaced with scar tissue. In most cases the scar itself is strong enough for the heart to pump just as well as normal. However, a heart attack at times can cause more severe damage to the heart tissue and the pumping action of the heart is affected. This may result in breathlessness, tiredness and swollen ankles. This condition is called Heart Failure.
REMEMBER:
- There is much less risk of another heart attack as you recover
- Your heart is one the toughest muscles in the body and it recovers very quickly
- Physical work and activity will not cause another heart attack
- It is normal to feel tired, but this will pass. There will be good days and bad days
- Most of the risk factors associated with heart attacks you can change yourself, and it is never too late!
- Most people make a full recovery from a heart attack returning to a normal life
- Once fully recovered many people actually feel better than they did before their heart attack
