Heart Problems

Posted on December 13, 2007 in Health-Sex

Heart diseases or related problems need not necessarily prevent someone from having sex. Many hold the opinion that after a person suffers from a heart attack he or she cannot have sex.  But this is not always true. One can have sex. At the same time much would depend upon the severity of the problem

There are many heart problems or conditions, which make it difficult to have sex. Sexual intercourse may become difficult. Conditions such as paralysis (following a stroke or spinal injury), heart failure etc may make it difficult for a person to have normal sexual activity. Many are hesitant to talk about their sexual fears and problems.  It is better to consult a physician.

Normally, after a heart attack a person is afraid to resume normal sexual intercourse as he or she feels that it could aggravate the condition and lead to another heart attack. They are afraid that their body system may not be able to take the physical strain of sexual intercourse. But one should take things easy. One should not be too concerned about the aftermath of a heart attack and worry about it. Fears should be set aside. It is good to seek professional help in such matters.  A thorough understanding of sex after a heart attack will help an affected person to understand issues better. His or her doubts about having sex will be set aside.

A patient who can climb four floors without breathing difficulties and does not suffer from significant palpitations or experience any chest pain (angina) should be able to have sex. Having sex may regain his or her confidence in health. If one does not want to have sex after a heart attack, one can indulge in other sexual related activities with the partner.

People have sex less often after a heart attack. They are wary of it. If they are in higher age, then they hesitant more.  Too many medicines for heart problems can also affect sexual desire. These medicines include those for blood pressure, fluid pills, tranquilizers, antidepressants and some medications used for chest pain and irregular heartbeats. They cause the inability to maintain an erection in men and frigidity or orgasmic dysfunctions in women.

Psychologically, also a person is affected if he or she is not in position to resume normal sexual activity. They will be sad, depressed or afraid and will feel tired often. They may eat more or less than what they normally do and will accordingly gain or lose weight. Also both the sexual partners have to cooperate with each other in order to have sex after a heart attack. Both are emotionally involved and the non-affected partner should be very understanding and supportive. Here at times counseling maybe required. After all if one is able to resume sex after a heat attack or related problems his or her self-esteem gets boosted.

Sex is important to a person even if he or she is suffering from heart problems.  At least he or she would like to know whether one could have normal sexual life if one is suffering from heart problems. A good counselor can sort out matters and advice accordingly.

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