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Can PTSD be caused by a heart attack, cardiac arrest or open-heart surgery?
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I confront the reality of trauma and PTSD following cardiac events like heart attacks, cardiac arrest, or open-heart surgery. It's a question many ask, and the answer is a definitive yes. I discuss:
- The Reality of Trauma: How life-changing cardiac events can make your own body feel unsafe, and why these feelings are normal.
- What is PTSD? Understanding symptoms like re-living events, heightened anxiety (hyperarousal), rage, guilt, vivid nightmares, and avoidance behaviours.
- Recognising Triggers: How your brain's protective mechanisms can lead to anxiety around hospitals, medications, or even physical sensations.
- The Impact on Recovery: How untreated trauma and PTSD can hinder your physical recovery and increase health risks like inflammation and blood pressure.
- Taking the First Steps: The importance of recognising symptoms and speaking openly with your primary doctor.
- Treatment Options: Exploring "watchful waiting," Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to manage triggers and coping mechanisms, and the role of medication.
- Self-Help Strategies: Practical tips including exercise, social support, and general self-care.
You are not alone; research suggests a significant number of cardiac patients experience PTSD. It's real, it's treatable, and it's never too late to seek help to improve your quality of life.
Key Takeaways:
- Trauma and PTSD are common after major cardiac events.
- Symptoms include anxiety, hyperarousal, and avoidance of triggers.
- Untreated trauma can impact physical recovery.•Knowledge is key to understanding and managing your experience.
- Speak to your doctor – help is available through therapy and/or medication.
- You are not alone and recovery is possible.
If this episode resonated with you, please share it. Follow my podcast for more vital discussions on heart health and recovery.
Resources:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder vs Post-Traumatic Growth
The Cardiac Trauma Reprocessing BLAST Technique®: Everything You Need to Know
Survival & Resilience: Life Before & After Jon Died
Read the complete article here Podcast & Blog Page.
Getting to know Sallie Crawley
Survivorship after a heart attack or cardiac surgery can be challenging. You can rebuild the puzzle of your life and thrive. It takes one beat at a time and the support of people who have had similar experiences. You are not alone. Join me and other hearties in the My Heart & Mind Community, you'll get a warm welcome. You can also visit my website www.myheartandmind.co.uk.
Disclaimer
The information contained within my podcast and on my website is for general information purposes only. It is not official health advice and is not intended to be used as such. Any action you take upon the information you find on this website is strictly at your own risk. If you have any questions relating to specific health concerns or you think you may be suffering from a medical condition, you must consult a medical professional immediately. You must also consult a medical professional before making any changes to your normal lifestyle habits. You can read my full disclaimer here.
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