As you recover from a heart incident, you will gradually resume daily activities such as household chores, work and travel.
On this page: Know when to stop · Starting to exercise/returning to work · Driving · Travel
Be aware that everyone is different, and recovery varies from person to person. Resuming certain activities really depends on:
- your age
- your previous activity level
- the severity of your heart condition
- how well you are recovering.
Know when to stop
You should stop and rest if during activity you experience
- central chest pain, tightness or pressure that may radiate to your jaw or arms
- shortness of breath
- excessive fatigue
- dizziness, fainting, nausea or sweatiness.
Follow the normal routine for managing angina. If symptoms persist for 15 minutes, ring an ambulance. (Dial 000 in Australia.)
Note: These are general guidelines only and must not replace specific advice from your doctor about your particular circumstances.
If you are unsure or have any other questions, contact your doctor or cardiac rehabilitation team.
Starting to exercise
See Staying active
Returning to work
- Consult your local doctor or cardiologist first
- Build up hours gradually
- Do light duties at first – modify heavy jobs with wheels, pulleys
- Take all breaks
- Avoid peak-hour travel to and from work
- Avoid stressful deadlines
Driving
Always consult your GP before you resume driving. If you drive before the recommended time, you may find that your insurance policy will not cover you in the case of an accident.
Here are some guidelines for resuming driving, depending on the cardiac event or procedure.
|
Condition |
Driving guidelines |
|
Heart attack |
Should not drive for two weeks after an uncomplicated heart attack (acute myocardial infarction).
|
|
Angina
|
May drive if angina is stable.
|
|
Angioplasty and/or stent
|
Should not drive for two days after angioplasty/stent.
|
|
Atrial fibrillation
|
Should not drive after an acute episode causing dizziness or fainting until condition is stabilised.
|
|
Cardiomyopathy
|
May drive if no symptoms on moderate exertion.
|
|
Cardiac arrest
|
Should not drive. Driver Licensing Authority will require a certificate from specialist before permitting a return to driving when underlying cause is treated.
|
|
Cardiac defibrillator
|
Should not drive. The Driver Licensing Authority may issue a conditional licence on advice of a specialist physician.
|
|
Cardiac pacemaker
|
Should not drive for two weeks after insertion of a pacemaker.
|
Information taken from 'Assessing fitness to drive', with the kind permission of Austroads Inc. 2003.
Travel
Bus and train travel can be stressful. Try to arrange alternatives for your first few weeks at home, and avoid peak-hour traffic.
The Airline Medical Unit restricts international air travel for a minimum of 14 days after your heart attack.
Domestic travel is possible but it is important to consult your cardiologist before you book any flights.
