Resuming activities

Everyone is different and will recover at his or her own pace. As you resume your regular activities, remember to always listen to your body and rest when you need to. Here are some general guidelines to help you get back on track.

Driving
Most people who have had a heart attack or heart surgery should wait for at least four to six weeks after they leave the hospital before driving. The reason: weakness, fatigue or medications may slow your reaction time. Consider your own safety and the safety of others. If you have other heart conditions, speak to your doctor about the length of time that is right for you. If you are a commercial driver, you will likely not be permitted to drive for at least three months after having had a heart attack or heart surgery. Your provincial or territorial ministry responsible for transportation will usually require information from your doctor before reissuing your commercial license.

Returning to work
If you worked before your heart attack or heart condition, you can usually go back to the same job within eight to 16 weeks. How soon you can return depends on many factors including your symptoms, how you feel and how physically demanding or stressful your job is. It may be a good idea to return on a part-time basis at first and gradually work up to full-time hours.

Sexual activity
It’s normal to feel anxious or uncertain about resuming sexual activity after your heart attack , heart surgery or if you have a heart condition. If you are concerned that sexual activity may bring on a heart attack, this is very rare. Sexual activity is not as demanding on your heart as you may think. In fact, if you can easily walk up two flights of stairs or walk briskly, your heart can meet the demands of sexual activity. Most people can usually resume sexual activity within two to three weeks of coming home from the hospital. Some medications, however, may reduce your sex drive. Some men may find that certain drugs may make it more difficult to obtain or maintain an erection. Talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns you may have.

Air travel
Air travel can be stressful if you are recovering from heart surgery or have a heart condition – whether you are navigating through a crowded airport with your luggage or dealing with the cramped space and lowered humidity levels on-board. If you have recently had a heart attack or have an existing heart condition, always talk to your doctor and check with your airline before you plan a trip. Most major insurance companies will not provide out-of-province or out-of-country medical insurance earlier than 90 days after a heart attack or a change in your medical treatment. Each airline also has its own policy for flying passengers after a heart attack.

Last reviewed September 2006.