This timeframe tends to be about two weeks after the heart attack . Because a heart attack will be different from person to person , several factors need to be considered . These include the severity of the heart attack , the recovery process and any underlying conditions .
Have an honest conversation with your doctor . Medications ( such as blood thinners and beta blockers ) prescribed after a heart attack may affect sexual function .
Never take medications for erectile dysfunction after a heart attack without first consulting your doctor . These , in combination with nitrates such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide dinitrate , can have grave effects .
Finally , don ’ t forget the psychological and emotional factors that accompany the resumption of sexual activity after a heart attack . Both partners , and more often the partner who did not suffer the heart attack , may feel anxious or concerned that another heart attack will happen or even that the person may die during sex . These concerns should be discussed with your doctor or counselor to help ease fear .
Having another heart attack or dying during sexual activity , when the green light has been given by your doctor , is rare but the worry and concerns are common . Ease into resuming sexual activities and have open communication with your partner . A strong relationship will , of course , make this all easier .
I WAS RECENTLY TOLD THAT GETTING A B12 INJECTION COULD BE AS EFFECTIVE AS GOING ON ANTIDEPRESSANTS . I WOULD LIKE TO AVOID USING A PRESCRIPTION , ESPECIALLY FOR ANTIDEPRESSANTS , IF IT ISN ’ T NECESSARY . IS B12 REALLY COMPARABLE ?
Vitamin B12 or cobalamin is found in animal-derived foods and can also be given via supplementation in the form of pills , sublingual ( under the tongue ) tablets and injections . Unless added as a fortification , it is not found in plant-based dietary sources , so vegetarians and vegans can easily become deficient .
Vitamin B12 is needed for brain function and nervous system health as it is involved in the synthesis of myelin , the protective covering of nerve cells that allows for communication between them . It is also necessary for the production of red blood cells . When individuals experience fatigue , they may be deficient in B12 , which may lead to anemia .
Vitamin B12 facilitates DNA synthesis and energy production by metabolizing carbohydrates and fats . The heart , eyes , bones , and skin also benefit from vitamin B12 .
There are ongoing studies regarding the role of vitamin B12 in mood regulation and thus far , some research suggests that maintaining adequate B12 levels is needed for overall mental well-being . However , there has been no direct link shown between the two . Studies have not been conclusive that using vitamin B12 alone is superior to prescription drugs that treat depression .
Because vitamin B12 is watersoluble and any excess is excreted from the body , trying a supplement or increasing this vitamin in your diet may be worth a try . But it should not be used to the exclusion of antidepressants until more studies support it .
Note : not everyone who is depressed requires antidepressant prescription medication . Depression is a very complex condition for each unique individual . It ’ s best to discuss everything with your doctor to see what can be done without resorting directly to medication unless it is absolutely necessary .
VIRGINIA LOEWENSTINE MD
Virginia Loewenstine , MD , is the CEO and Medical Director of Tristate Preventive Health Consultants . With over 30 years of experience in Occupational and Preventive Medicine , her focus is improving the wellbeing of First Responders with an emphasis on early cancer detection and mental health . She has received many prestigious honors and awards throughout her career . As an educator to Fire Departments , she presents the latest in medical testing and other advances to assist Fire Departments in the design of their annual physical programs . Founded in 2007 , Tristate Preventive Health Consultants provides medical consulting , on-site physicals , and medical testing nationwide .
To learn more about Tristate Preventive Health Consultants visit tristatepreventivehealth . com To submit your questions to Dr . Loewenstine , email info @ crackylbusinessmedia . com
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