Struggling after cardiac arrest during angiogram and finding it hard to cope

[Bunnyfuller1]

Long time cardiac patient. Heart attack in 2019 then ongoing issues and tests. Developed unstable angina in January which resulted in another stent. Had ongoing breathlessness and angina on slight exertion so went in for an angiogram to investigate microvascular disease. During the procedure I went into cardiac arrest, and was luckily brought back. They’ve told me the procedure caused it, but they had known they were running into problems and continued and ended up introducing air bubbles into the main artery which caused a total blockage, massive heart attack and cardiac arrest. They’ve told also told me that they’d used the wrong size catheter which also contributed to what happened.

I’m a fucking mess. They’ve discharged me, on every med possible to keep arteries open, with an urgent referral to have a non-invasive look at the main artery to see if there’s significant issues there, I’m scared, in loads of pain from the CPR, not eating, not sleeping and swinging between irritability and tears.

i dunno what I’m asking really. Speaking here is easier than talking to family because they’re also struggling. 😕🙁

Anyone?

Is there a psychologist attached to your cardiac team? Ask for a referral if so.

Cardiac stuff is hard: it's something that really has to work... you can't do without it.

So sorry that happened to you and it sounds very traumatic. Is it likely you have PTSD? Somewhere like here might help with therapy? https://www.resus.org.uk/public-resource/support-for-survivors/cardiac-arrest-survivor-support-in-the-UK

This sounds so traumatic, I'm so sorry it happened to you.

In your shoes I would try and keep distracted with gentle things like a jigsaw, or putting together a photo book

Thank you. I’m not sure if PTSD starts immediately, just feel so crappy.

What a traumatic experience, I am so sorry this happened to you. I'm sure it has happened very recently if you're still in pain from the CPR, it must all feel so raw and scary. Have they offered you any counselling or anything? Are there people around you to help look after you?

That sounds horrific and I’m not surprised you’re struggling. I recently underwent an angiogram for a suspected heart attack which turned out not to be, and I’m still awaiting an actual diagnosis. I’m really struggling with anxiety about it all, so I can’t imagine how you’re feeling!

I think some counselling would probably be helpful. I’ve also been assigned a nurse from a community cardiac care team, to talk to about anything - do you have one of those? They might know of some support for you.

I honestly don't mean to sound trite but meditation or mindfulness practices might benefit you at this time as I imagine it's important to try and reduce stress on your heart, albeit very difficult to do after such a horrible ordeal. If you consider it, the app Insight Timer is very good with lots of different medications and talks on there. Many will focus on health issues, ptsd, stress anxiety etc. It might just help as you contend with this.

I wish you all the best op.

Oh and I also got prescribed some diazepam for a couple of weeks by the GP which helped enormously.

Just here to give a gentle hug.
My partner has cardiac problems and it’s been traumatic for him, partly because it was undiagnosed for years.
Hoping the medics can give some reassurance and stability soon.

That sounds awful OP - I'm so sorry you went through that. Would you be able to see your GP on Monday, or is there any support from cardiology for you? @Specialneedsnightmare's sugestion of mindfulness or guided meditation is a good one until you can get support or counselling. Go easy on yourself, you've been through a real trauma there and you're bound to feel very shaken and sore from it 💐

What a shit show at the hospital. Putting you through all of that. I would suggest booking an appointment with your GP to talk it through and get some anti anxiety meds and booked in to talk to someone. Speaking from experience with a cardiac shit show 10 years ago, dont ignore the psychological impact on you while you just plug on trying to get physically better, the mental side is just as difficult and just as important.

Also if you are still in pain from the CPR, have you had a chest xray to see if they might have broken your ribs? Its unfortunately quite common with CPR.

The Britush Heart Foundation website and helpline are good for this. Also you could talk to PALS at the hospital too.

You have been through a very traumatic experience.

I would speak to hospital and ask for a de brief. Its a chance to discuss everything and ask questions, also ask for some support in the form of counselling.
You are allowed to be upset and irritated. Take time to process everything and recover physically & mentally.

Hope you start to feel better soon.

Well I'm not surprised you're struggling - they nearly killed you! That's appalling OP - what a catalogue of errors and ineptitude. I'd be making a formal complaint I think, but maybe get some support first

Your reaction is totally justified. Just think how odd it would be if you went through all of that and came out completely unbothered by the experience? You’ve been through a lot, not just recently, but for years. Please go easy on yourself and do whatever you need to to stay as calm as you can. Seek support from loved ones, I know it’s hard as you say they’re struggling with it too. But if it was the other way around you would want to comfort them wouldn't you? Very best wishes and I truly hope things take a better turn for you.